Specialisation by STP

Specialist Training Program

Overview

Specialist Physiotherapist is awarded by the Australian College of Physiotherapists (ACP) 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: 

1. Development of specialist skills 
2. Participation in education of the profession 
3. Commitment to lifelong learning and professional development 
4. 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

Note - 2026 entry details will be available July 2025.

STP requirements

Introduction of Part-Time Training in the STP

Part-time training within the Specialist Training Program (STP) refers to a new structured and flexible training arrangement. Under this model, registrars will complete training requirements equivalent to six months over a twelve-month period. This approach allows for gradual progression, extending the duration of the registrar's training program to align with part-time commitments.

It is important to note that part-time training is not recommended during the first year to ensure a strong foundation and smooth transition into the program's requirements. Approval is required for registrars to undertake part-time training, ensuring alignment with program goals and individual circumstances.

For the 2025 training year, part time training applications are due prior to commencement of the
relevant six-month training period as follows:

• First semester: February 28, 2025
• Second semester: August 31, 2025

To request part-time training, please refer to the Special Consideration policy and submit via online
form.

A part time training fee is being introduced to support this change.

STP Fees

Introduction of semester-based fees for the STP

A semester-based fee structure for the Specialist Training Program (STP) is applicable from 2025. This approach aligns payments with specific progression points in the training program, offering a more flexible and manageable option for registrars.

From 2025 registrars will transition from payment of an annual training fee to a semester fee. This change enables registrars to make payments incrementally rather than paying a single upfront amount at the beginning of the training year.

For the 2025 training year, six-month semester fees are due as follows:

• First semester fee: April 15, 2025
• Second semester fee: October 15, 2025

This streamlined structure is designed to provide greater financial flexibility while aligning closely
with training milestones.

For further details about the semester-based fees or to review how this change may affect your
training, please email the ACP team.

2025 Specialist Training Program fee structure

STP Application

Applications for STP 2025 entry have now closed. Application information for 2026 entry will be made available in July 2025

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