But I do know this: if we want the APA to lead healthcare reform that puts the patient journey at the centre and if we want to see physiotherapy properly funded to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, we must build advocacy alliances with urgency and intent.

For this federal election, the APA was more prepared than ever. 

In these first few months of 2025, amid the federal election, the conversation around genuine primary healthcare reform in Australia has gained critical momentum. 

One of the most significant and necessary shifts that the APA continues to advocate for is the broad implementation of multidisciplinary teams in primary care. 

The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2021–2031 (Department of Health 2021) defines cultural safety as follows:

In 2007, receiving an APA Professional Excellence Award was a pivotal moment in my career as a physiotherapist. 

It was more than just recognition; it was a signal to push further, to explore new approaches and to seek out even better outcomes for my clients. 

As your president-elect, I’ve often been asked why I chose to become a physiotherapist—a question that piques the interest of media and members alike. 

Like many physiotherapists, my journey began with a positive encounter with the physiotherapy profession during my youth.

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.

What specific question did your study seek to answer?

In this study, we investigated two research questions:

What are physiotherapy students’ attitudes and beliefs towards providing care for LGBTQIA+ individuals?

Specialist Paediatric Physiotherapist (as awarded by the Australian College of Physiotherapists in 2008) Dr Melissa Locke FACP describes her near-40-year career as nothing short of extraordinary.

I am deeply honoured to be named President Elect of the APA.

This is a recently created position, to be appointed by the APA Board in the final year of the current National President’s term.

The role enables a smooth transition of leadership and continuity of the vision and key responsibilities of the APA National President.

As co-Vice President of the APA, I have had the privilege of witnessing National President Scott Willis advocate tirelessly for the profession.