Physiotherapy Career Pathway
Physiotherapists adopt a range of methods to improve a patient’s quality of life by reducing pain, increasing and maximising range of mobility whilst minimising the risk of greater injury. These methods include exercise, performing massage or stretching, and educating and empowering the patient to facilitate their own path back to health.1
1 Australian Standard Classification of Occupations (ASCO) 2nd Edition, ABS Catalogue No. 1220.0, p131.
Career outlook at a glance
36
Median age of Australian Physiotherapists (in years)
44,700
Physiotherapists workforce in Australia
$1,710
Median weekly earnings in Australia
Source: Jobs and Skills Australia. 2024.
Where do Physiotherapists work?
Physiotherapists work in a range of settings, including private practice, a rehabilitation centre, or in a hospital outpatient clinic. Physiotherapists may also work in sports alongside a multidisciplinary team of health professionals. Just over 25.7% work in New South Wales, and 25.1% work in Victoria and Queensland. 2
2 Jobs and Skills Australia. 2024.
How much do Physiotherapists earn?
According to Seek, the average annual salary in Australia for a Physiotherapist is between $85,000-$95,000. 3 They work an average of 41 hours per week.
3 Seek. September 2024. Physiotherapist Salary
Specialisations
There are many settings in which physiotherapists are found:
- Health research
- Aged care
- Sports
- Private practice
SCU Online courses
For more details about the SCU 100% Online healthcare courses, see below:
What education do you need?
To become a physiotherapist, you need a Bachelor degree in physiotherapy, which can take up to five years of full-time study.
How long does education take?
- A bachelor degree takes 4 years full-time.
- A post-graduate master's degree or graduate diploma can be obtained online in 16 months part-time.
- A graduate certificate can be obtained in a minimum of 8 months.
