In 2022, the Australian Genomics Workforce Education Program began a consultation with genomics stakeholders about a capability framework to support mainstreaming efforts in genomic medicine in Australia. This process revealed the need for a framework to outline the knowledge, skills and attributes that non-genetics professionals require to underpin safe and effective genomic medicine practice.
Through 2023-2024, the Working Group developed a draft framework informed by a landscape review and interviews with genomics stakeholders. This was refined and finalised through a consensus process with invited experts in education, research and healthcare in 2025.
The capability framework primarily aims to guide educators and educational institutions in design and align programs and resources to support workforce development in genomics across multiple professions. It may also provide a foundation for stakeholders to identify workforce needs and development opportunities, and for health care professionals to plan their own learning and development.
Report
Acknowledgements
We acknowledge the contributions of clinicians, patient advocates, researchers, policymakers and educators to development of this capability framework. We also thank all those who were interviewed. We recognise the members of our Delphi expert group, including those members who wish to be acknowledged as follows:
- Aideen McInerney-Leo, The Frazer Institute, Dermatology Research Centre, University of Queensland
- Andrew J. Mallett, KidGen Collaborative, Townsville Hospital and Health Service, James Cook University, The University of Queensland
- Cassandra McDonald, Centre for Genetics Education/Health Education and Training
- Chirag Patel, Genetic Health Queensland, Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital, Brisbane
- Dhanushi Abeygunawardena, School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW Sydney
- Elizabeth Emma Palmer, UNSW Sydney and Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network
- Gabrielle Reid, Genomics Coordinator, Master of Genetic Counselling and Master of Genomics and Health, The University of Melbourne; Certified Genetic Counsellor, Inherited Cancers Australia
- Helen Wright BSc MSc PhD, RN
- John Christodoulou, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and University of Melbourne
- Johanna Barclay, Australian Alliance for Indigenous Genomics (ALIGN)
- Kirsten Boggs, Australian Genomics
- Kortnye Smith, Medical Oncologist, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Eastern Health
- Monica Ferrie, Genetic Support Network Victoria (GSNV)
**Please note that acknowledgement for contribution does not constitute endorsement by expert members’ affiliations and/or organisations.
Contact
Bronwyn Terrill