Curiosity has always driven APA Titled Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist Laura Hanson MACP—curiosity about how the body works, how people heal and how teams thrive. 

As program lead for physiotherapy at Better Health Network and deputy chair of the APA Leadership and Management national group for the past three years, she’s built a career defined by learning and purpose. 

‘I’ve always loved biology and anatomy. 

'Physiotherapy was the perfect blend—combining science with the opportunity to work directly with people. 

‘What keeps me passionate is the broader problemsolving element: understanding not just what’s happening with a knee or shoulder, but everything that makes up the individual person—their environment, psychosocial background and confidence.’ 

Originally from the United Kingdom, Laura completed her Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy at the University of Southampton in 2001. 

‘That gave me an appreciation of whole-person care right from the start.’ 

Her early career began in the National Health Service, rotating through acute and rehabilitation settings before focusing on outpatients, drawn to the variety and reward of helping people regain function. 

After several years in London, Laura migrated to Australia in 2008 and worked in private practice. 

She later moved into the NDIS sector, serving as national clinical lead for a disability organisation before joining community health. 

‘At Better Health Network, I lead the physiotherapy team and our allied health assistants, overseeing both one-on-one and group programs. 

'The community health sector has unique challenges—we can’t always offer extended individual sessions so our group programs (eg, GLAD for osteoarthritis or strength-and-balance classes) help clients progress independently. 

'We want to empower people to be their own therapist.’ 

That same philosophy shapes how Laura leads her team. 

‘Effective leadership starts with self-leadership— it’s about creating a safe, supportive environment where people feel confident to do their best work.’ 

Her involvement with the Leadership and Management group, which supports physiotherapists developing leadership capability, has been both energising and essential. 

‘The group has given me access to like-minded people who are generous with their ideas. 

'I’ve learned so much from hearing different perspectives—from health design to emerging leadership trends.’ 

It has also provided a platform for giving back. 

‘There’s often little structured support for physiotherapists moving from a clinical to a managerial role. 

'Many fall into leadership because it’s the next step but they haven’t had the chance to build those skills. 

'Being part of the group allows me to help others navigate that transition.’ 

Among her many influences are the tutors, senior clinicians and colleagues who modelled critical thinking and holistic, patient-centred care. 

‘They encouraged collaboration and saw physiotherapy as part of a wider health system. 

'That interdisciplinary mindset continues to shape my work.’ 

A defining moment in her career came during her master’s studies—a time of personal challenge and resilience. 

‘While I was completing my degree, my husband and I went through miscarriages, IVF, moving house and then the birth of our twins. 

'It was a lot but my studies gave me purpose. 

'Graduating was my proudest moment—it reminded me what persistence and support can achieve.’ 

Today, Laura’s mentoring continues through her workplace’s collaboration with the University of Melbourne, where physiotherapy students undertake community engagement projects. 

‘We’ve had students review some of our group programs to make sure we’re still practising the evidence-based recommendations and not diluting our practice over time. 

'That’s very important to me— that we keep developing clinically and ensuring that all our services are evidence-based.’ 

Staying curious and adaptable opens doors to countless opportunities, Laura says. 

‘One of the reasons I love physiotherapy is that it’s such an adaptable career. 

'You’re never pigeonholed. 

'Many senior leaders I know started as physios and are now directors of allied health services. 

'There are always new ways to make an impact.’