Ahead of the 2026-27 Federal budget, The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) has released its pre-budget submission, calling on the Federal government to enact changes which increase the role of physiotherapy across the health system.

Australia’s health system remains overburdened, and physiotherapy offers evidence-based, cost-effective interventions that are ready to help the government deliver on its reform ambitions by strengthening care, improving outcomes and delivering greater value.

Tens of thousands of Australians have joined a growing movement to oppose recent changes to National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) pricing, with a community petition officially tabled in Parliament today by Senator Jordon Steele-John.

Last week, The Australian obtained and released insensitive Freedom of Information (FOI) documents stating that the NDIA, despite extensive and collective pressure from disability advocates, is urging the government to stay firm on the 1 July funding cuts.

The APA is deeply concerned to see the NDIA pursuing unrealistic and excessive budget goals based on flawed data and at the expense of participants’ lives, despite united advocacy and desperate calls for consultation from those most affected.

Yesterday's implementation of cuts to the NDIS will devastate access to critical services for people living with disability.  

Despite the APA and many other allied health bodies raising overwhelming concern for participants and providers, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has proceeded with changes based on flawed, limited data and developed without sector consultation.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) has implored the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) to urgently pause its planned cuts to price limits and travel expenses for therapy services, set to take effect on 1 July.

Yesterday, the APA met with the Office of Senator Jenny McAllister, Minister for the NDIS, to present robust, independent evidence that clearly shows the NDIA’s decision-making is flawed. We were encouraged by the meeting, which resulted in the swift facilitation of a meeting with the NDIA, which took place this morning.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association, Dietitians Australia, Australian Podiatry Association, Speech Pathology Australia, Occupational Therapy Australia, the Australian Psychological Society, Exercise & Sports Science Australia, Osteopathy Australia and Australian Association of Social Workers are calling on the Federal Government and the National Disability Insurance Agency to immediately halt and review the NDIS pricing decision which poses a direct threat to essential supports and choice for people with disability.