Why Australia Needs More Physiotherapists: Growing Demand, Shortage and Job Opportunities

When I first started my PhD in Australia, one thing stood out to me. Australians loved movement. They would hike, walk, and play sports. Staying active was a big part of life. And it still is. No wonder, physiotherapists are so in demand in the country. After all, they are the professionals who help people keep moving. 

However, a change is coming. Over the last few years, the physiotherapy workforce has gone from “nice to have” to “essential.” I noticed this even when I was there, but it seems, this demand has only grown.

Not only are the professionals buzzing with the news of shortage of physiotherapists, the government has officially launched, what can only be called, an invitation campaign for overseas physiotherapists. 

If you’ve been thinking about applying for physiotherapist jobs in Australia, now is the perfect time. Demand is soaring and salaries are strong. The government is investing millions to bridge the gap. 

Australia’s message is clear: we need more physiotherapists, and we need them fast.

In this blog, I will highlight, with numbers, the growing demand and the job opportunities for physios in Australia. Let’s start.

The Numbers Tell a Clear Story

Australia’s healthcare sector is one of the best in the world. And it is expanding. What’s even better, physiotherapists are at the core of that growth. There are currently around 47,900 employed physiotherapists. Projections show this number rising by nearly 17.6% over the next few years. That’s an expected workforce of around 60,000 professionals, according to the national Workforce Report 2025.

The reasons are clear: 

• An ageing population
• Increased chronic illnesses, and 
• Reforms in aged care and disability services
• The numbers are soaring for sports especially, when we get to see Olympics on our feed

There is a consistent rise in demand. And the supply? It simply isn’t keeping up.

Shortages and Action Plans

The Australian government has identified physiotherapy as a priority occupation. The National Allied Health Workforce Strategy highlights physiotherapy as one of the key professions in short supply across the country.

The allied health workforce now represents over a quarter of the entire healthcare workforce. Yet persistent gaps exist in both metro and regional settings.

The Victorian Health Workforce Strategy alone anticipates 86,500 new health and social care workers will be needed between 2024 and 2027. Physiotherapists are singled out as a top priority.

This isn’t just talk. It’s policy, investment, and structural reform.

Why Demand Keeps Rising

An Ageing Nation

• By 2033, one in five Australians will be over 65. 
• Physiotherapists play a crucial role in maintaining mobility.
• They help manage arthritis and post-surgery rehabilitation.
• Home care visits are available across major cities and countryside

Chronic Disease and Long COVID

• Chronic illnesses and long COVID cases have increased.
• Physios are becoming essential in long-term care and rehabilitation planning. 
• The demand has become continuous.

Geographic Gaps

• Most physiotherapists work and live in big cities. 
• Between 2017 and 2023, the workforce grew 40.6% in metro regions.
• However, there was only 30.9% growth in rural and remote areas. 
• That imbalance means regional Australia has more physiotherapy job openings.

The NDIS and Aged-Care Boom

• The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and aged-care reforms continue to expand funding for mobility, rehabilitation, and therapy services.
• This means more physiotherapy jobs across both sectors.

The Economic Case: Why More Physios Save Money

Now, you may think how can it save money? Sounds counterintuitive, right?

Well, for Australia, hiring more physiotherapists isn’t a luxury. It is also good economics. Studies show that early physiotherapy intervention:

• Reduces hospital readmissions
• Cuts surgical costs
• Helps seniors stay independent longer

That means fewer emergency visits and lower long-term care expenses for the system.

So when governments talk about “investing in allied health,” it’s not just policy jargon. It's a preventive health strategy. One that will improve lives and save millions in healthcare costs.

Salary Insights: What Physiotherapists Earn in Australia

The average annual salary is A$95,405. Most salaries range between A$68,660 and A$122,150. It depends on experience and specialization.

Here’s a snapshot:

• Entry-Level: A$70,000–85,000
• Mid-Level: A$90,000–100,000
• Senior/Clinical Specialist: A$110,000–130,000
• Private Practice Owner: Up to A$150,000+

Online, there are consistently 3,000+ live job listings for physiotherapists nationwide. Many offer 

• Relocation incentives
• Flexible work options
• Rural allowances
• Referral programme
• Professional development assistance
• Visa sponsorship

For anyone seeking physiotherapist jobs in Australia, that’s a healthy job market with plenty of choice.

The Tech Revolution in Physiotherapy

Technology is reshaping physiotherapy practice. It is creating even more opportunities.

Telehealth

• Virtual physiotherapy sessions now connect clinicians to patients in remote communities.
• This has improved accessibility and expanded career flexibility.

Digital Rehab Tools

• Wearable sensors and AI-driven posture tracking allow real-time feedback.
• This lets physios monitor patient progress remotely.

Data-Driven Care

• Hospitals and clinics are increasingly relying on analytics.
• This helps them to personalize therapy programs and improve outcomes.

Digital healthcare adoption has accelerated. Physiotherapists who embrace tech are finding themselves in higher demand. They are also often getting higher-paying roles.

Pathways for International Physiotherapists

Australia also welcomes international talent to help fill the shortage. The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Physiotherapy Board of Australia oversee the registration process.

Here’s how it typically works:

1. Qualification Assessment: Your overseas degree is assessed by the APC.
2. Knowledge & Competency Tests: Complete theory and clinical assessments.
3. AHPRA Registration: Once approved, you can register and begin practising.
4. Visa Pathways: Physiotherapists are listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List. You have options for visa routes, such as the 
   1. Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) 
   2. Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 491)
   3. PR Visa (subclass 190)
   4. Training Visa (subclass 407)
   5. Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482,494)

This clear and supportive migration pathway is one reason international physiotherapists are increasingly choosing Australia as their next professional home.

Regional Australia: Where Jobs Meet Purpose

If you’re open to relocation, regional Australia offers a blend of professional challenge and personal satisfaction.
Working outside big cities means:

• Broader clinical exposure, from driving practice, sports injuries to geriatric care.
• Strong community connection and professional autonomy.
• Attractive pay packages and government-funded incentives.
• Employee upliftment programme

Rural Australia isn’t a step back. It is where many physios find their career purpose and fast-track their growth.

Career Satisfaction and Growth

Physiotherapy ranks among the most rewarding professions in healthcare. A 2024 survey by the APA showed that over 82% of physiotherapists reported being “highly satisfied” with their career. The main reasons being meaningful patient relationships and tangible daily results.

Career growth options are also expanding:

• Move into specialist areas like sports or neurology.
• Advance into leadership or research roles.
• Transition into telehealth entrepreneurship or clinical education.

In short, physiotherapy isn’t just a stable job. It’s a lifelong career with purpose.

The Road Ahead

The next five years will likely see record job openings, particularly across

1. Aged care
2. Rehabilitation, and
3. Rural services

The future for physiotherapist jobs in Australia looks both secure and full of opportunity. The national and state governments are aligning workforce strategies.

• For students, that means more university seats and job guarantees.
• For international clinicians, smoother visa pathways and higher chances of permanent residency.
• For the nation, it means better access to the care that keeps Australia moving.

Quick Stats Recap

Would I Recommend Australia To Budding Physiotherapists?

Absolutely. I have seen first-hand the opportunities that are present for physiotherapists in the country. The Australian government has invested millions in this sector. Universities are expanding to digital innovation and international migration pathways. Hence, they’re inviting a lot of overseas-trained physiotherapists in Australia to bridge the gap. All the signs point to one conclusion: Australia’s physiotherapy future is wide open.

This might be your golden chance. Now is the time to explore physiotherapist jobs in Australia. It might just be the best move you’ll ever make. What’s even better is the new APEP pathway has made things easier and faster. 

And don’t let the exam deter you. At Academically, we have just the thing you need. A power-packed APEP Exam Preparation Course. From full syllabus coverage to mocks and practice questions. 

So, what are you waiting for? Strike when the opportunities are hot.