How Much Does It Cost to Become a Physiotherapist in Australia?

Jan 02, 2025 3 min read

Key Takeaways:

  1. Becoming a physiotherapist in Australia involves costs for English tests, eligibility assessments, and clinical exams.
  2. It costs around AUD 7,870 (~₹4,17,000), covering all necessary steps.
  3. High salaries, work-life balance, and PR opportunities make the investment totally worth it.
  4. Planning your finances and preparing early can help you stay ahead of the rest.

Becoming a Physiotherapist in Australia is a dream for many, and it's easy to see why. With excellent pay, high demand, and an outstanding quality of life, this career path is both rewarding and fulfilling. However, pursuing this dream requires an investment, both in effort and finances. If you're planning to make this journey, knowing the costs involved can help you plan better. 

Here's a detailed breakdown of the expenses you might incur in this journey.

Why Choose Australia As An International Physiotherapist?

Australia is a top destination for healthcare professionals, and physiotherapists are no exception. With salaries often being more than AUD 80,000 per year, a growing demand for skilled professionals, and opportunities for Permanent Residency, it’s a golden opportunity. 

But like any cherished goal, becoming a physiotherapist in Australia also requires preparation, and that includes knowing how much it will cost.

Breaking Down the Costs

Let’s take it step by step and look at the major costs involved in becoming a physiotherapist in Australia.

1. English Proficiency Test

Since Australia is an English-speaking country, proving your proficiency in the language is essential. You can choose from tests like IELTS, OET, or PTE.

  • PTE Exam Cost: AUD 285 (~INR 15,000).
  • IELTS Costs: AUD 400- 500 (~INR 21,000 - 26,500 )
  • OET Costs: AUD 587 (~ INR 31,214)

2. Interim Certificate

The Interim Certificate process includes two important steps:

A) Eligibility Assessment

This involves evaluating all your submitted documents to ensure they meet Australian standards.

  • Fee: AUD 1,136 (~ INR 60,400).

B) Cultural Safety Training

Understanding and respecting cultural diversity is a non-negotiable part of working in Australia's healthcare system. This training prepares you for that.

  • Fee: AUD 228 (~ INR 12,000).

3. APC Written Assessment

The Australian Physiotherapy Council (APC) written assessment tests your knowledge, problem-solving skills, and decision-making ability. This is divided into two papers, which are taken on the same day.

  • Fee: AUD 1,958 (~INR 1,04,000).

4. APC Clinical Assessment

The final step is the clinical assessment, where you show your practical skills in a simulated healthcare setting. This assessment is conducted in Australia, so you’ll need to travel to complete it.

  • Fee: AUD 4,263 (~INR 2,26,000).

Total Costs

Here’s a quick summary of the costs for your journey:

Step

Fee (AUD)

Fee (INR)

PTE Exam

285

~₹15,000

Eligibility Assessment

1,136

~₹60,000

Cultural Safety Training

228

~₹12,000

Written Assessment Exam

1,958

~₹1,04,000

Clinical Assessment Exam

4,263

~₹2,26,000

Total

7,870

~₹4,17,000

Is It Worth the Cost?

This investment pays off handsomely once you start practicing in Australia as a Physiotherapist. Here’s why:

  • High Salary: Physiotherapists in Australia often earn six-figure salaries.
  • Work-Life Balance: Australia is known for its relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of time to enjoy after getting done with work.
  • Permanent Residency: The country offers excellent pathways to PR for healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists.

This investment is not just in your career but in your future quality of life.

Final Thoughts

Pursuing a physiotherapy career in Australia requires dedication and planning, but it’s a goal worth striving for. With clear steps and reliable support, you can achieve your dream and enjoy the many benefits that come with it.

Click here for a free consultation with our experts and start your journey today!

Aqsa Ahmed
about the author

Aqsa Ahmed is an aspiring medical writer with a strong passion for communicating healthcare topics to non-medical audiences. Motivated by a love for contemporary literature, she believes in using literature to increase awareness about complex medical topics and diagnostic procedures in an attempt to eliminate prejudice surrounding medical science and improve public health understanding.