The 2026–27 federal Budget presented an opportunity to strengthen primary care, reduce hospital demand and deliver clear economic and social value – priorities that sit at the heart of the APA’s ongoing advocacy work.

For many Australians, accessing a publicly funded physiotherapist requires waiting until they enter hospital.

The APA has long argued that this system disadvantages not only patients, but also the economy.

Benjamin Ong didn’t always envision a career in physiotherapy. It was a home visit by a physiotherapist treating a family member in Malaysia that first sparked his interest in the profession.

Seeing the impact of physiotherapy firsthand and the difference it made in his loved one’s care inspired him to pursue the field himself.

As physiotherapists, we are trained to assess, diagnose, manage and refer people to other disciplines to ensure patients receive the best possible care.

Current work through the Physiotherapy Board of Australia and the broader scope of practice reform agenda reflects growing recognition that physiotherapists can safely and effectively work to an expanded scope.

In many parts of Australia, particularly rural and remote communities, physiotherapists are already functioning as primary contact practitioners.

A year into Labor’s second term, the reform landscape appears active but those working within it see a system operating under strain. 

As APA General Manager, Policy and Government Relations, I have observed how the immediate post-election energy has shifted into something harder: delivering on proposed plans. 

My interest began as a business owner. Technology improved communication, streamlined operations and supported more consistent care, creating a better experience for both patients and clinicians. 

My work has since focused on developing and evaluating digital health solutions that extend physiotherapy beyond traditional clinic walls. 

As the representative body for the physiotherapy profession, we at the APA are acutely aware that our decisions carry significant weight, not only for our members but for all Australian physiotherapists. 

It is for this reason that we don’t make decisions lightly or enact change on important issues that impact the profession without extensive consultation. 

Central to this process is hearing directly from our members to ensure that their perspectives are meaningfully reflected in the positions we adopt. 

Falls prevention access and funding is a key policy and government relations priority for the APA. 

Physiotherapy-led prevention reduces falls and fractures. It improves strength, balance, confidence and mobility, while enhancing a person’s participation and quality of life. 

It also reduces system costs through avoided hospitalisations and surgery. 

Here at the APA, it has been a busy and purposeful start to the year. 

Much of our collective energy has gone into preparing the APA 2026–27 federal pre-Budget submission, shaped by months of consultation, evidence review and conversations with members. 

Thanks to APA Strategy and Policy Specialist Bronwyn Darmanin for her leadership on the submission.