At the APA, we cannot achieve the outcomes that we set out to deliver without a strong workplace culture that prioritises flexibility, inclusivity and the wellbeing of our people. 

That is why fostering a thriving culture that empowers our people to grow, lead and feel proud to belong is a key part of our ‘deliver’ pillar in the strategy plan, Towards 2030 – because we know that strategy sets direction but culture is what moves people forward. 

One of the most enduring lessons of leadership is that culture isn’t something you write down in a strategy document. 

It is something people feel in every interaction, every decision and every conversation. We encourage a culture where people feel that they can easily speak up, engage in healthy debate and challenge respectfully. 

The results of this approach speak for themselves. Our most recent staff survey, conducted across a team that has now grown to over 100 people serving our 36,000 members, recorded that our engagement level of satisfaction is at 86 per cent. 

This is a result we are genuinely proud of – and one that has seen the APA recognised as an employer of choice for five consecutive years. We have also become a member of Diversity Council Australia, achieving above benchmark results in an extensive workplace review. 

This reflects our commitment to building a workplace that mirrors the make-up of Australia’s population and to creating an environment where it is encouraged to be yourself and feel safe at work. 

Beyond the metrics, what truly drives our people is the purpose behind the work. 

Our staff find meaning in their job by supporting physiotherapists to do vital work in Australia’s healthcare system. Knowing that their efforts contribute to a healthier Australia, and to the success of the practitioners who deliver care, gives our people a true sense of pride. 

This culture of purpose and engagement has a direct and tangible impact on our members. 

We strive to encourage a culture where our teams listen, collaborate and respond to provide the best possible experience for our members. 

A thriving internal cultural is not simply something to check off on a to-do list. It is the foundation upon which meaningful member relationships are built. 

Recently, the strength of the APA was put to the test during the NDIA’s cuts to NDIS physiotherapy price limits. 

What stood out most to me was not just the speed of our response but the unity behind it. 

Our ability to come together amplified the voices of physiotherapists across Australia in calling out the unjust nature of these cuts. 

This is the power of membership. 

Every member strengthens our collective voice. 

Your commitment to the APA directly increases our capacity to influence decisionmakers, protect the value of our profession and advocate for fair and sustainable conditions for physiotherapists. 

A culture of support, respect and inclusivity is not built overnight, nor is it ever truly complete. 

We will continue to focus on building a sustainable workplace that is infused with the APA’s values and share what we learn along the way. 

Because when we invest in our people and our culture, we are investing in the long-term strength of our profession and in a future where people want to build long and rewarding careers in physiotherapy.

Rob LoPresti

APA Chief Executive Officer