The process of becoming a physiotherapist in Australia has become even more simple with the introduction of the new APEP pathway in October of 2025. The process has become almost entirely remote with only one in-person step.
So, 2026 can be your best chance to take up this opportunity and start your journey into the Australian physiotherapist sector.
If you have already taken the written exam or are gearing up for it and wondering what comes next, this blog is for you.
Today, we will cover what comes after you have passed your APEP written exam. This means, you will get to know all about the oral exam, job search, visa requirement and more.
Let us get started.
The APEP Pathway For Physiotherapist 2026
The Australian Physiotherapy Entry Pathway (APEP) is the current standard assessment pathway for physiotherapists qualified overseas who want to obtain a license to work in Australia.
Step 1: Complete the APEP Pathway
The Australian Physiotherapy Entry Pathway (APEP) is now the official process for internationally qualified physiotherapists.
Here’s what it includes:
1. Eligibility Assessment
- Your qualification, internship, and professional background are reviewed.
- You also complete Cultural Safety Training to understand Australian healthcare values.
- Many candidates receive an Interim Certificate after this stage, which can support supervised practice options.
2. Written Assessment
- This is the exam you’ve already cleared. It confirms your theoretical knowledge.
3. Capability Assessment
- A remote, structured oral assessment.
- Focuses on clinical reasoning, communication, and decision-making using case scenarios.
- Open-book and discussion-based, rather than a traditional exam format.
4. Clinical Workshop
- A one-day, face-to-face workshop in small groups.
- Practical, interactive, and designed to test your ability to apply clinical skills safely and effectively.
Once you successfully complete all stages, you receive your APEP Final Certificate. This is your key document for registration.
Step 2: Register with AHPRA
After passing the clinical exam, the next step is registering with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). This mandatory registration officially recognises your qualifications and confirms your readiness to work as a healthcare professional in Australia
Step 3: Seek Jobs with Sponsorship
Once you’ve secured AHPRA registration, it’s time to start your job search. This is where the fun begins. Many Australian healthcare facilities actively seek international physiotherapists and offer job sponsorships.
There’s consistent demand for physiotherapists across Australia. You can find roles in:
- Major hospitals
- Private clinics
- Sports centres
- Rehabilitation facilities
- Community settings
And now finding jobs in Australia has become even easier with a job platform, Jobslly, that caters especially to the needs of healthcare professionals.
Why this is great news for you:
- Plenty of openings, especially in regional areas
- Many employers support visa sponsorship
- Opportunities to grow into specialised roles
Indicative salary ranges:
- Entry-level: AUD 65,000-85,000 per year (INR 39-51 LPA)
- Experienced practitioners: AUD 100,000+ per year (INR 60 LPA)
Some regional roles even offer additional incentives. They are an attractive option for newcomers.
Step 4: Obtain a Work Visa
Once you complete APEP and register with AHPRA, you can choose from several visa pathways. There are multiple options you can choose from, depending on your situation.
Employer-Sponsored Visas
- Temporary Skill Shortage -Subclass 482
Work in Australia, usually up to 4 years, with an employer sponsor. - Employer Nomination Scheme -Subclass 186
Permanent residency through employer sponsorship. - Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional -Subclass 494
Employer-sponsored role in regional areas with a pathway to permanent residency.
Points-Based Skilled Migration
- Skilled Independent -Subclass 189
Point-based, permanent residency without employer sponsorship. - Skilled Nominated -Subclass 190
Permanent residency with nomination from a state/territory. - Skilled Work Regional -Subclass 491
Provisional visa for regional areas, with a pathway to permanent residency after requirements are met.
Getting Support Makes a Big Difference
The APEP pathway can feel complex when you’re doing it for the first time, but guidance helps enormously.
With our APEP Preparation Course, you can expect much more than just exam preparation:
- Preparation strategies for capability-based questions
- Mock assessments and practice cases
- Help organising documents for registration
- Personalised planning and timelines
Prepare For The Next Step
Once you have passed the APC written exam, half of your job is already done. It is one of the most important parts of the APEP pathway. Take a moment to celebrate your success and then start preparing for the next steps.
With the new changes, most of the steps can be completed from the comfort of your home.
And if you need any assistance with the oral exam, job search or even visa application assistance, reach out to us and we will help you navigate your path.
All the best for the next steps!
