Specialisation by the Specialist Training Program
Overview
Specialist Physiotherapist is awarded by the Australian College of Physiotherapists to physiotherapists who have successfully fulfilled all requirements of the Specialisation Training Program (STP). Specialist Physiotherapists have attained the highest level of clinical expertise in their chosen field of physiotherapy.
The STP is a two-year program encompassing education, training and assessment in a field of practice.
The STP is structured around four elements:
- Development of specialist skills
- Participation in education of the profession
- Commitment to lifelong learning and professional development
- Participation in research activities
Upon successful completion of the two year training program, the registrar will be invited to sit a two-day Clinical Examination, which includes a Viva Voce. The clinical examination and viva voce must be successfully met for the ACP to award Specialist Physiotherapist.
Eligibility
Application for selection into the STP is open to Titled physiotherapists in an eligible field of practice and who meets the selection criteria, including membership of a national group that offers specialisation (listed below).
Fields of Practice
- Cardiorespiratory
- Gerontological
- Musculoskeletal
- Neurological
- Occupational Health
- Paediatric
- Pain
- Sports and Exercise
- Women’s, Men's and Pelvic Health
Important dates for STP 2025 entry
| Date | Detail |
| 4 September 2024 | STP Information Session – registration now closed |
| 16 September 2024 | For more information, fees and application for 2025 entry, see STP information for applicants and apply. |
| 4 November 2024 | Applications close for admission to the 2025 Training Program |
| 29 November 2024 | Training Program selection interviews (virtual) |
| Mid December 2024 | Applicants will be advised if they have been accepted into the Training Program |
| 1 April 2025 | 2025 Training Program commences |
Application and fees
How to apply
Visit STP application web page to view information and apply online.
| Component | Fee (inc GST) |
| Initial application fee (from 2024) | $300 |
| Program fee ($9900 - paid in two instalments:) | |
| - on acceptance into the program | $4950 |
| - on acceptance into the second year of the program | $4950 |
| Clinical Examination and Viva Voce fee (paid in one instalment on acceptance to sit the final examination) | $3300 |
| Resit Clinical Examination/Viva Voce fees: | |
| - Practical Component (Clinical Cases x2) | $2200 |
| - Viva Voce Component: | $1100 |
| Full examination | $3300 |
More information
- Read the Specialisation Training Program Manual (PDF)
- Watch the September 2024 ACP STP Information Evening recording
Connect with us
For further assistance, please email the ACP team