The Australian Genetics Training Centre (AGTC) has been established to provide genetic training and learning services to health practitioners and interested lay people.  The AGTC Code of Practice establishes a formal protocol by which we shall implement our program in a manner that promotes transparency, accountability and responsibility. 

AGTC has developed this Code to ensure transparency in the conduct of AGTC operations.  The Centre provides a variety of distance learning opportunities to facilitate flexible, convenient and cost effective training in this specialized and increasingly important field of medicine.

Training Standards

Best practice training methods and resources will be used to ensure maximum opportunities for clients to fulfil their training needs.  Program Manager, Ms Elvira Zilliacus, has over 10 years experience developing and presenting genetic training to health professionals and postgraduate students. 

Distance learning will take advantage of current technologies to deliver a comprehensive training package to be accessed at the convenience of the client.  Media used will include the AGTC website, on-line materials, email tuition, 24 hour hotline (via email) and workbook with course notes.

AGTC Responsibilities

AGTC partners recognise that their primary responsibility is the effective provision of learning and training services that meets the needs of clients with whom they deal.  They:

• will seek to understand the needs of clients and deliver up-to-date information, skills and knowledge that meets client needs;
• will respect the privacy of clients and maintain confidentiality
• will maintain best practice training and technical standards
• will respect the differing needs and understanding of clients and provide encouragement and support to the best of their ability, within the context of the learning environment

Client Information & Support

All information on clients enrolling for distance learning will be stored on electronic and printed spreadsheet or database format and securely stored to avoid breach of server-client confidentiality.  No client details will be publicly released or revealed without the written approval of the client.  While broad demographic analyses may be used for marketing purposes from this data, no specific names, addresses or other personal information will be disseminated.

In relation to support of clients through their studies or within workshops, clients may seek assistance and support from the Program Manager.  All reasonable efforts will be undertaken to resolve any queries, problems, dissatisfactions and/or suggestions expressed by clients in relation to courses offered by AGTC.

Quality Control

All courses are subject to regular reviews and evaluation by the Planning Committee to ensure that course components keep up with: industry, student and Centre needs , developments in the fields of clinical genetics and genetic counseling and referral services offered by public and private institutions around Australia

Student Assessment

Each module will require the satisfactory completion of modules for a final assessment to be completed.  The Centre will make every effort to negotiate, plan, implement and review assessments to meet the needs of each client and to ensure that the satisfactory completion of assessments leads to the issuing of statements of attainment.

Evaluation and Review Methods

At the completion of each module, participants will be asked to complete an evaluation form indicating their views on the strengths and weaknesses of the module and possible ways to improve the activity.  These comments will be used in the review of the modules and units.

Client Communication Procedures

Any client who feels that they have grievances to air, difficulties in any area, suggestions or new ideas, should consult the Program Manager as soon as possible. Communication is vital to the successful resolution of any situation, including proposal of new ideas, constructive criticism, or anything else.

We will do our best to accommodate client needs and to deliver the highest standard of education possible, however client input is vital to the attainment of that ideal. The proper procedure for suggestions, new ideas or academic difficulties is to email the Program Manager.  All correspondence will be responded to within 7 days of receipt.

Privacy

The Centre respects the privacy of all clients and is committed to protecting personal information provided to us. The Centre will comply with both the Australian Privacy Principles and the Information Privacy Principles contained in the Commonwealth Privacy Amendment Act (2000).

AGTC ensures information provided to us remains private and protected from misuse, loss, unauthorised access, modification or disclosure. Access to information is restricted to relevant, authorised staff needing access to complete their duties effectively.

AGTC ensures the information provided to us is used only for the purposes the client agrees to when first requesting service. Written consent is obtained before using a client’s personal information for marketing or advertising purposes.

Financial Standards and Safeguards

The Centre is committed to maintaining high standards of financial record keeping and proper student procedures and policies for the correct handling of financial transactions with students. 

Fees

Upon applying to study one or more of the modules or units, clients shall complete an application form available on-line and pay the enrolment fee(s) to AGTC.  Following receipt and acceptance of the form and payment, the client will be sent study materials and a password to access the on-line lessons and resources. Mail out of this material will constitute the commencement of their studies.

Refunds