Physiotherapy is an evidence-based health profession focused on the prevention, assessment and treatment of human movement disorders, helping individuals restore physical function, manage pain, and maintain optimal health across the lifespan. In Australia, to register and practice as a physiotherapist you must complete an accredited university program — either a four-year Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours), a graduate-entry Master of Physiotherapy, or a Doctor of Physiotherapy — and then register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) through the Physiotherapy Board of Australia. Graduates are also eligible for membership of the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA), the peak professional body representing the profession. The course is designed for students who are passionate about human biology, physical movement, and patient-centred care, and who want a career at the intersection of clinical science and hands-on therapeutic practice.

Physiotherapy programs in Australia cover a broad range of clinical disciplines including musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiorespiratory, paediatric, aged care, sports, and community health physiotherapy. Students build a deep foundation in anatomy, physiology, pathology, biomechanics, and clinical reasoning before progressing into intensive supervised clinical placements — typically up to 900 hours — in hospitals, rehabilitation centres, private clinics, and community settings. Graduates are prepared to work across the full spectrum of healthcare environments, including public hospitals, private practices, sporting organisations, aged care facilities, schools, and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Employers include state and territory health departments (such as NSW Health, Queensland Health, and SA Health), private physiotherapy chains, sports clubs, workplaces, and disability service providers.

For undergraduate entry into a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) in Australia, applicants typically need an ATAR ranging from the mid-70s to the high-90s depending on the institution, making it a competitive but attainable qualification across the country. Most programs require the completion of at least one Year 12 science subject — commonly Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Human Biology — as either a prerequisite or assumed knowledge. Some institutions also consider relevant vocational study, bridging courses, or equivalent qualifications. Special entry pathways exist for applicants from rural and remote backgrounds, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, reflecting the profession's commitment to workforce diversity and regional health equity.

For graduate-entry programs such as a Master of Physiotherapy or Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT), applicants are generally required to hold a completed undergraduate degree with a minimum credit average (typically a GPA equivalent to around 5.0–6.0 or a weighted average mark of 65–70 out of 100). Some programs specify that prior study in biological sciences, anatomy, or physiology is assumed knowledge, even where formal prerequisites are not mandated. Applicants may also be required to sit a Situational Judgement Test (SJT) as part of the selection process. For international students, English language proficiency must be demonstrated — typically an IELTS Academic overall score of 7.0 with no band below 7.0, an OET score of Grade B or higher in all components, or a PTE Academic minimum score of 66. Students undertaking clinical placements also require a National Police Check, Working with Children Check, and immunisation records, as mandated by placement providers.