The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) has written to the major parties ahead of this month’s Victorian state election with a solutions paper that outlines the potential of physiotherapists to alleviate pressure on the health system, and better support Victorians managing long COVID.

APA President Scott Willis says long wait times, fragmented services and affordability factors significantly impact access to essential care for a number of high-priority groups within the state.

The first Federal Budget delivered this week by the Labor Government puts the right economic outcome above a political one and sets Australia back on a path to reforming the health system.

The APA is disappointed that the Budget does not provide investment in public funded physiotherapy which will advance health, improve patient care, and increase value.

“The APA’s pre-Budget submission provided the Morrison Government with evidence-based initiatives that would improve patient outcomes, reduce costs and enhance health care. We are disappointed the Government chose to ignore our submission,” APA National President Scott Willis said.

“The Budget has failed to set the fair foundations we needed for health equity and access.