What is the purpose of the symposium? 

‘Excellence Down Under Symposium 2026’ was created to bring together some of the leading minds in pelvic health physiotherapy to bridge the gap between research and real-world clinical practice. 

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.

In July, our Deputy CEO Craig Maltman will retire after 14 remarkable years at the APA. Over that time, Craig has served in several pivotal roles: General Manager of Corporate Services, Company Secretary and Deputy CEO. 

I want to take this opportunity to thank him for everything he has contributed to this organisation and to the physiotherapy profession and to acknowledge what a privilege it has been to have him as a colleague. 

Craig is an exceptional leader. 

Written employment contracts are a key tool for setting clear expectations, reducing misunderstandings and protecting the rights of both employers and employees while ensuring that each fulfils their obligations. 

WOMEN’S PELVIC HEALTH LEVELS 1 AND 2 – PART B 

Designed to help physiotherapists develop their practical skills and clinical reasoning in women’s health, this course aligns with content taught in the online Level 1 Women’s Pelvic Health course. 

When I was a student physiotherapist, becoming vice-president of the APA was the last thing on my mind. 

What I did have was a strong work ethic and a curiosity to learn beyond what was being taught. 

I would stay back after placements, help out on sports sidelines or sit in on extra presentations. 

I didn’t see it as ‘volunteering’ at the time – I was just generally interested in what was happening around me. 

Looking back, that mindset shaped everything that followed. 

From one year to the next, the goal of the Physiotherapy Board of Australia remains constant – to protect the public by ensuring that all physiotherapists in Australia are suitably trained, qualified and safe to practise. 

Most of us enter this profession because we are passionate about helping people. We become great clinicians through hard work, persistence and an investment in our continuing education. 

For those of us who accidentally find our way to running a business, the next challenge becomes: how do I transition from clinician to business owner and who can help? 

Last year we released our strategy plan, Towards 2030. 

At its heart is a simple but powerful commitment to the people who make this organisation what it is: our volunteers. 

Through our connection pillar, we are working to recognise and reward the contributions our volunteers make to strengthen our profession. Across the association, members volunteer at every level.