Physiotherapy Registration in Australia

International physiotherapists are welcome on our dedicated Australia physiotherapy jobs & courses hub. To work as a physiotherapist in Australia you must be registered with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia (PBA) via AHPRA. You may also need an appropriate Australian work visa from the Department of Home Affairs.

These application processes are entirely separate — success in one does not guarantee the other.

Most overseas-qualified physiotherapists must have their qualifications assessed by the Australian Physiotherapy Council (APC) to meet the eligibility requirements for General Registration. There are two main assessment pathways:

  • Standard Assessment Pathway — eligibility check, cultural safety training, written assessment, and clinical assessment. Learn more.
  • Equivalence of Qualification Pathway — an accelerated evidence-based assessment comparing your training to Australian program standards.

Note: The APC’s Standard Pathway will transition to the Australian Physiotherapy Entry Pathway (APEP) from October 2025. Check current requirements here before applying.

If you are not an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, you will also need a suitable visa. Some visas require a skills assessment from the APC. Details on skills assessments.

To determine the right assessment for your situation, click here.

Applicants may also need to complete an International Criminal History Check (ICHC) from an AHPRA-approved supplier before applying. More on ICHC.

New Zealand Registered Physiotherapists

If you hold full registration and a current practising certificate issued by the Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand, you may apply directly for General Registration with the PBA under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition arrangements. Apply here.

The Physiotherapy Board of Australia is a separate organisation from the Australian Physiotherapy Council. Visit www.physiotherapyboard.gov.au for full details.

Join the community discussion: Physio Forum: Working in Australia

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