Published 10 Jul 2023

How to Become a Physiotherapist: A Step-by-Step Guide

Michael Yi

With around 113,000 physiotherapists, it’s one of the most popular and well-paying healthcare professions in Australia. Physiotherapists make a real difference in patients’ lives, improving their quality of life through personalised care and rehabilitation.

In this blog, you’ll discover more about the role, find out which course you should choose, what the job involves, and the steps to becoming a physiotherapist.

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What is a physiotherapist?

A physiotherapist, also known as a physical therapist, is a healthcare professional who specialises in the ability to assess, diagnose, and treat physical conditions and injuries. They work with patients of all ages to restore and maintain physical function, mobility, and overall well-being, including those with acute and chronic health conditions.

What does a physiotherapist do?

Physiotherapists perform a wide range of tasks to help patients improve their physical health and recover from injuries. Some of their key responsibilities include:

Assessing and diagnosing physical conditions and injuries
Developing personalised treatment plans and goals for each patient
Providing hands-on treatments such as manual therapy, exercises, and stretches
Using specialised equipment and modalities like ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and heat therapy
Educating patients on injury prevention, self-management techniques, and promoting overall health and well-being
Monitoring and evaluating patient progress and adjusting treatment plans accordingly

How much does a physiotherapist earn?

The average annual physiotherapist salary in Australia ranges between $85,000 to $100,000 AUD. Entry-level physiotherapists can expect to earn around $60,000 AUD per year, while experienced professionals with advanced qualifications and expertise can earn significantly higher salaries.

The average cyber security analyst annual salary

$0,171

per year in australia

Six main specialisations in physiotherapy

Specialisations in physiotherapy allow physiotherapists to focus on specific areas of practice and provide specialised care to patients with different needs. Here are some common specialisations in physiotherapy:

Sports physiotherapy
These physiotherapists work with athletes and active individuals, helping them prevent and recover from sports-related injuries. They focus on rehabilitation, improving performance, and preventing future injuries in sports and athletics.
Musculoskeletal physiotherapy
These specialists focus on assessing and treating conditions that affect the muscles, joints, and bones. They help people with issues like back pain, arthritis, fractures, and recovery after surgery.
Neurological physiotherapy
These physiotherapists work with patients who have neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries. They focus on improving movement, function, and independence for individuals with neurological impairments.
Paediatric physiotherapy
These specialists work with children who have developmental delays, congenital conditions, or injuries. They help address motor development, coordination, and physical challenges specific to kids.
Geriatric physiotherapy
These physiotherapists work with older adults, addressing age-related conditions, mobility issues, and diseases like osteoporosis or arthritis. They focus on promoting independence, fall prevention, and maintaining functional abilities.
Cardiovascular and respiratory physiotherapy
These specialists work with patients who have heart or lung conditions. They assist with pulmonary rehabilitation, manage breathing difficulties, and improve cardiovascular fitness.

How to become a physiotherapist in Australia

To become a physiotherapist in Australia, these are the recommended steps you should take:

1. Study an accredited physiotherapy course

To become a registered physiotherapist in Australia, you must complete a bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy from a university accredited by the Australian Physiotherapy Council (APC). Only APC-approved programs meet the professional standards required for registration.

If you’re looking for a faster entry point into the field, completing a Certificate III and/or Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy) can qualify you to work as a physiotherapy assistant. These courses can be completed in as little as 12 months.

3. Registration

Clinical placements are a mandatory component of physiotherapy education in Australia, offering students extensive hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. For example, the University of Melbourne’s Doctor of Physiotherapy includes around 37 weeks of clinical placement across hospitals, private practices, and other medical facilities. These placements are designed to build practical competence, improve employability, and prepare graduates for diverse career pathways.

2. Clinical placement and work experience

To practise as a physiotherapist in Australia, graduates must register with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia. Registration requires proof of English language proficiency, a criminal history check, and professional indemnity insurance. Maintaining registration involves completing a minimum of 20 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) annually and demonstrating at least 450 hours of practice over the past three years.

For overseas-trained physiotherapists, qualifications must first be assessed by the Australian Physiotherapy Council (APC). As of 1 October 2025, the new Australian Physiotherapy Entry Pathway (APEP) has replaced all previous assessment routes.

Becoming a physiotherapist in Australia requires dedication, a passion for helping others, and a commitment to ongoing learning. With a rewarding career that focuses on improving physical health and well-being, physiotherapy offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. If you’re considering a career as a physiotherapist, follow the outlined steps, and kickstart your career in an exciting journey in this dynamic and fulfilling field.

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