Working in Addition to Placement to the 5+1 Internship, 6 weeks prior to 28 days post

Successfully Transitioning from Your 5th Year Working in Addition to Placement Program, to the 5+1 Internship: Key Requirements and Deadlines

Transitioning from a Working in Addition to Placement Program to the 5+1 internship requires careful planning to ensure compliance with Board requirements. One essential step is submitting the INPP-76 form to commence the 5+1 internship, start logging hours toward it, and transition out of the "Working in Addition to Placement. 

Key Deadlines to Remember

• Apply Early: Applications for the 5+1 Internship can be submitted up to six weeks before completing 5th-year studies.

• 28-Day Transition Rule: Provisional psychologists have no more than 28 days after completing their studies to ensure they have successfully transitioned into the 5+1 internship. After this period, working under the "Working in Addition to Placement" policy is no longer permitted.

Understanding the "Working in Addition to Placement" Policy

The Psychology Board of Australia states:

"Provisional psychologists completing the 5+1 internship program pathway may continue to work in addition to placements while finalising their sixth internship program plan for up to 28 days after completion of the fifth-year degree. However, they cannot begin to accrue hours for the sixth-year internship until the completed plan has been submitted and approved by the Board."

Importance of Understanding Section 2.5.1 of the 5+1 Internship Guidelines

The 5+1 Internship Guidelines (Section 2.5.1: Commencing the Internship) outline key requirements for a smooth transition:

• Early Lodgement: Provisional psychologists undertaking a Graduate Diploma of Professional Psychology (fifth year) may submit their INPP-76 form up to six weeks before completing their degree.

• Internship Start Requirements: The sixth-year internship can commence as soon as the fifth-year qualification is completed, provided that:

  • A complete internship plan has been submitted to the Board for approval.

  • The principal supervisor is Board-approved for the 5+1 internship program.

  • Provisional registration is maintained.

• Client Contact Restrictions: Provisional psychologists cannot begin client contact in the internship until the Board approves the internship program plan. Until written approval is received, client contact hours can only be accrued through simulated client contact activities.

Understanding and adhering to these requirements ensures provisional psychologists avoid unnecessary delays in starting their internship and accumulating valid supervision hours.

Steps to Ensure a Smooth Transition

Step 1: Apply Early

• Submit the INPP-76 form up to six weeks before completing studies.

• Ensure the 5+1 Internship plan meets all Board requirements.

Step 2: Coordinate With a Board-Approved Supervisor

• Discuss the transition plan with your board-approved supervisor for working in addition to placement. 

• Confirm that the new or same role aligns with the 5+1 Internship program requirements.

Step 3: Track the 28-Day Window

• Mark deadlines on a calendar to avoid missing the transition period.

• Submit all required documentation within the 28-day timeframe to prevent delays and as early as possible to allow time for the board to approve the INPP-76.

Start Your 5+1 Internship Without Delay

There’s no reason to wait—get started on your 5+1 Internship today! We have Board-approved supervisors ready to oversee your journey, ensuring you meet all requirements smoothly. We may even be able to connect you with funding options relevant to your state to help alleviate some of the costs.

Request a supervisor with us today

or Contact Us for more information!