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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Selection Initiative

RACS is committed to promoting an increase in the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors within the medical workforce.

RACS’ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Surgical Trainee Selection Initiative (PDF 30.25KB) is designed to address the low participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors in the surgical specialties as outlined in our Diversity and Inclusion Plan (PDF 857.21KB). Individual Specialty Training Boards may implement a selection initiative to expand opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to enter training. Specialties may provide for setting aside posts for applicants who in the registration process identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and meet the eligibility requirements for membership of Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA). 

To be eligible to be appointed, applicants must meet the minimum standards for appointment as defined by the Specialty Training Board. RACS also offers an Indigenous Scholarship Program to support medical graduates who identify as Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander or Māori, on their chosen career path to becoming a Surgeon.

 

The following surgical specialties have implemented this initiative within their selection processes:

  • Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • General Surgery (Australia)
  • Neurosurgery
  • Orthopaedic Surgery (Australia)
  • Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (Australia)
  • Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Australia) 
  • Paediatric Surgery
  • Urology
  • Vascular Surgery

If you would like to read more about Promoting diversity and inclusion or stay up to date, we recommend reading the Latest Diversity and Inclusion Plan progress update.