The New Colombo Plan Pre-Departure Training (PDT) provides outgoing NCP scholars with key information, practical skills and a deeper understanding of the NCP prior to their departure.
The PDT is a mandatory component of the NCP scholarship, designed to support scholars in preparing to undertake their program overseas. It is also an important opportunity for scholars to meet with their cohort and connect with members of the broader NCP community, including NCP alumni, and NCP Secretariat and NCP Support services staff.
FAQs
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Breakfast (at your hotel), morning tea and lunch will be included on Monday 4 December and Tuesday 5 December. An allowance for incidentals (e.g. taxis to the airport, additional food) will be provided to each scholar travelling from interstate. Further details will be provided upon your arrival in Canberra.
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Yes, wi-fi will be available at both the hotel and the PDT venues.
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You may bring your own laptop if you wish but it is not a requirement. We will supply you with any necessary pens and paper.
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Smart casual attire is recommended for the PDT. During your time in Canberra, some of you may have the opportunity to visit the Embassy/High Commission of your proposed host location – smart casual attire or business attire is recommended for these visits.
The dress code for the Awards Ceremony is formal.
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Please contact us on ncp@thepalladiumgroup.com as soon as you are aware that you cannot attend the PDT.
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Unfortunately, the PDT is reserved only for NCP Scholarship recipients. It is an integral component of the scholarship and an important opportunity to meet your fellow 2024 scholars. Due to the busy schedule, there would be limited time outside of the PDT to meet with family and friends.
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The PDT starts on Monday morning 4 December; however we are hosting an informal welcome event on Sunday 3 December at the Novotel from 6pm. You are welcome to come along, and dinner will be provided.
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Taxis will be organised for scholars arriving on the group flights arranged by NCP. Information will be sent to your email regarding where to meet after collecting your luggage. For scholars arriving on flights organised separately/with international connections, you may need to arrange your own transport to the hotel. Please contact ncp@thepalladiumgroup.com if you are unsure.
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Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate any requests for flight changes. Please send us an email at ncp@thepalladiumgroup.com if your travel plans have changed. You will be responsible for booking and paying for any alternative arrangements.
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Travel insurance is in place for attendees travelling more than 50km to attend the PDT and Awards Ceremony in Canberra. Please note important policy exclusions:
Events caused by pre-existing health conditions and travelling against medical advice.
Damage or loss of luggage and personal effects if baggage unattended, unless it is securely locked inside a building or securely locked and completely out of sight inside an aircraft, vehicle, or vessel (where no reasonable alternative secure storage is available).
Damage or loss of luggage and personal effects which can be recoverable by you from any other source (e.g. airline responsible for lost luggage).
No Loss, damage, liability, event, injury or illness that is covered by Medicare, any workers compensation legislation, any transport accident legislation, any government sponsored fund, plan or medical benefit scheme.
For full details of policy coverage, please contact ncp@thepalladiumgroup.com. If you feel that the standard policy coverage is not adequate for your needs, please consider taking out additional insurance (at own expense).
Should you encounter a potential loss or incident during your trip to Canberra, please contact ncp@thepalladiumgroup.com or contact NCP Support Services on 0429 484 491.
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Yes, we have strong COVID management protocols in place. While you are currently not required to wear a mask, wearing a mask during the PDT and on transport is encouraged in line with ACT Government advice to wear a face mask when entering public indoor settings.
If you feel unwell, have symptoms, or are a high or moderate risk, you should get tested for COVID-19 and quarantine until you receive their result.
We will be closely monitoring any changes to health advice within the ACT during the events and will provide updates when required.
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Your health and wellbeing are very important to us. Please let us know if you become unwell. We will have a number of staff on-site during the PDT whom you can talk to directly. Alternatively you can contact NCP Support Services on 0429 484 491 or email ncp@thepalladiumgroup.com.
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Calvary Public Hospital, 5 Mary Potter Circuit, Bruce ACT 2617 (open 24 hours)
Canberra Hospital, Yamba Drive, Garran ACT 2605 (open 24 hours)
City Family Practice, 161 London Circuit, ACT 2601 (8:30am – 5pm, weekdays only)
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Staff trained in Mental Health First Aid will be available throughout the event. Please contact NCP Support Services on 0429 484 491 or ncp@thepalladiumgroup.com if you have any concerns. In addition, there will be a dedicated ‘quiet space’ available during the PDT where you can take time out if required.
There are also a range of support services available online. Please visit the Government’s Health Direct’s website on mental health helplines for more information.