National Close the Gap Day is held annually on the third Thursday in March, which this year falls on 20 March. 

It’s a day that holds particular importance for the APA because we are keenly aware of the critical role that physiotherapy can, and should, play in closing the gap in life expectancy, child mortality and education and employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. 

The Australian healthcare system is among the strongest in the world, underpinned by Medicare, which ensures that most Australians have access to essential medical services. 

This universal healthcare framework supports equitable health outcomes and reflects the nation’s commitment to high standards of care through world-class hospitals, a skilled workforce and advancements in medical research. 

Australia’s health system stands at a crossroads, shaped by post-pandemic recovery, fiscal constraints, workforce shortages and growing inequities. 

This is my final First Word as National President of the Australian Physiotherapy Association.

I am grateful to the APA for the privilege and honour of leading this profession and association over the past four years.

This has been one of the most satisfying opportunities of my professional career.

I would strongly encourage any member who possesses the drive, empathy, articulation, vision and support to embark on a leadership role within the APA.

As 2024 winds up, it’s no accident that this article mirrors a discussion I had with the APA’s National Advisory Council at a recent workshop in Perth. 

I always think that taking the opportunity to reflect on some of the highlights of the year is important, as is sharing them.

At this time of year, when APA members are renewing their membership, there’s a question that will cross many minds.

What is the value of membership and what does it mean to you?

The concept of value is subjective and is assessed in different ways over the course of a professional life.

By way of illustration, take Errol Lim, who has clocked 30 years of APA membership and recently shared his thoughts about it on LinkedIn.

I am very pleased to be writing my first article for InMotion as the new General Manager, Policy and Government Relations at the APA. 

At the time of writing, I’ve been in the role for just over two months, having started not long after Rob LoPresti, our new CEO.