In an effort to create a clear picture of the profession, the Australian Chiropractors Association (ACA) is conducting its first Chiropractic Workforce Census, open to all registered chiropractors in Australia.
A 12-month project analysing available data about the profession, including discussions with key stakeholders, resulted in the identification of critical data gaps related to Australia’s chiropractic workforce. This included areas such as workforce structure and employment, extended scope and qualifications, and digital participation.
Filling these gaps and creating a clear picture of the chiropractic profession is critical, particularly in a rapidly evolving practice environment. At a government level, there are a significant number of healthcare reviews and reforms underway and notable industrial relations changes affecting how chiropractors are engaged and paid. On top of this, we live in a time of rapid digital change.
Census data will be utilised as part of the ACA’s strategic planning for the future. Moreover, it will support our ability to develop a relevant workforce strategy, engagement with government, and critically allow us to effectively advocate on your behalf.
Additionally, the data revealed in the census will provide the profession with data to benchmark against.
As ACA President, Dr Billy Chow, explains, “the environment we practice in is changing, growing, and evolving.”
“Having a clear snapshot of the chiropractic profession is critical. Not just for us as practitioners, but for the future of our profession.”
Not only will the data guide the ACA’s activity, strategy, advocacy, and workforce planning, but it will also assist in the identification of trends, gaps, and opportunities across the profession. In turn, this will support the development of a national chiropractic workforce strategy and contribute to broader Commonwealth and State health workforce initiatives.
Will my data be used in other ways?
In addition to the above, the census data will be turned into a professional, public-facing report and analysis, focusing on key data and findings to help deepen the understanding of the scope, reach, and contribution of the profession. This will be released to members and relevant stakeholders.
How is the survey conducted?
Independent experts in association and membership research, Survey Matters, have been engaged by the ACA to conduct this census.
What kind of questions will be asked?
Survey Matters and the ACA have worked together to create questions that gather information required to fill the profession’s data gaps and allow for analysis of key metrics, including years of experience and age.
As such, you will be asked questions on the following key areas: demographics and professional profile, practice information, employment and remuneration, digital engagement and system interoperability, and future intentions.
Please note the census can be completed anonymously. Your individual responses will remain confidential and will be reported only in aggregate.
How long will it take?
Approximately 10 minutes.
Where can I complete it?
To complete the census today and help shape chiropractic’s future, click here.