Fellows and supervisors both have responsibilities in the supervision process, and this is important for maximising the outcomes of placements. A co-operative relationship needs to be developed between the fellow and supervisor to ensure that the agreed placement outcomes and competencies and skills are achieved. Supervisors should have a doctoral qualification or a master’s qualification plus work experience in the field in which the placement is to be undertaken.

The host organisation is expected to provide:

• an orientation tour of the workplace at the beginning of the placement
• a dedicated workstation
• access to a computer and a printer 
• access to other resources and support enjoyed by staff at the organisation
• appropriate transport or reimbursement for activities related to the placement 

Supervisors are expected to provide a dedicated amount of time to fellows in the supervision process to provide more in-depth learning, and this should occur at least fortnightly. This responsibility should not be delegated to other staff.  Supervision on a day- to- day basis should be provided with regard to the fellow's need.  The delegation of this role must be negotiated with the fellow and Manager of the scheme prior to commencement of the placement.  Experience has shown that more intensive supervision is required at the commencement and completion of each placement.  If supervisors find they are unable to adequately supervise a placement they should discuss this with the scheme Manager and fellow at the earliest possible opportunity so that an alternative can be arranged.

Lines of accountability need to be articulated, especially where the supervision is provided from a person located within another organisation, as may be the case with collaborative projects. At all times the nominated placement supervisor retains responsibility for the placement as outlined in the Learning Agreement.

Fellows are expected to abide by the day-to-day work conditions of the placement organisation.
Planning meetings between the university, student, DHS and the placement organisation are held prior to each placement to determine the specific learning activities to be undertaken by the Fellow during the placement. These activities will not replace or supplement the work done by employees of the placement organisation. These activities are selected to provide practical experience to the Fellow in an area where they have no or limited experience.