The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) welcomes the continued investment in the nation’s health articulated in tonight’s Federal Budget.

In a budget framed as a plan for a “new generation of prosperity”, APA National President Dr Rik Dawson MACP said Australia’s healthcare system requires a bolder reform agenda.

‘While immediate funding commitments are important, Australia’s healthcare system is in urgent need of greater reform to deliver sustainable, evidence-based and equitable care that will improve outcomes for generations to come,’ Dr Dawson said.

Millions of Australians are living in pain, waiting for treatment—while physiotherapists remain underutilised and locked out of care pathways they are trained to lead.

‘Budget night should remind us that healthcare is about more than dollars—it’s about access, prevention and patient-centred care. Without action on workforce reform and new models of care, funding alone won’t fix the system,’ Dr Dawson said.

The APA’s Federal Election Statement outlines three key priorities for reform:

• Funded direct access to physiotherapy
• New care pathways for musculoskeletal conditions
• Greater investment in early intervention.

‘Australians deserve faster access to effective care. Physiotherapy-led solutions are ready to scale and backed by evidence. It’s time to invest in smarter pathways that keep people well and out of hospital,’ Dr Dawson said.

While the Treasurer acknowledged that "more bulk billing will mean less pressure on families” and confirmed record investment in Medicare, Australians still face long waits for diagnosis and treatment. Unless the role of the broader healthcare workforce—including physiotherapists—is expanded, the full benefits of that investment will not be realised.

‘We commend the government’s commitment to strengthening Medicare,’ Dr Dawson said, ‘but Medicare must evolve. Enabling funded, direct access to physiotherapists is a pragmatic, cost-effective solution that improves outcomes and relieves system pressures.’

Read  the APA’s full 2025 Federal Election Statement: Putting patients at the centre of care to learn more.