The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) cautiously welcomes the reform-focused sentiment of the 2026-27 Federal budget tonight and a positive announcement for veterans’ health.

APA National President Dr Rik Dawson said that this government’s willingness to pursue health care reform, despite the challenges of the current fiscal environment, is commendable.

‘We are pleased to see that, despite the challenging fiscal environment, the 2026-27 federal budget prioritises reforms across the health care sector,’ said Dr Dawson.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) has released its recent submission to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee, calling for reforms to Medicare which remedy the Scheme’s failure to provide equitable access to physiotherapy in rural, regional and remote communities. 

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.

Investing in women's health is not just a matter of fairness—it is a critical driver of societal and economic wellbeing. Research has consistently shown that when women’s health needs are met, societies prosper. At this week’s Senate Inquiry into Issues Related to Perimenopause and Menopause, policymakers were asked not to shy away from addressing the most debilitating symptoms of menopause amidst growing public awareness of its impact on women’s lives.  

In a flash poll conducted by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA), over 90 per cent of physiotherapists said they have treated patients suffering after unnecessary and potentially harmful surgeries. This comes following a confronting exposé of Australia’s chronic pain industry on ABC Four Corners, which highlighted potential overuse of surgical procedures, despite physiotherapy treatment being considered part of best practice.

February 2024

In marking the 40th anniversary of Medicare, health leaders have cautioned that determined reform efforts are vital for ensuring Australia’s health system can meet current and future pressures including climate change and an ageing population.