Physiotherapists in Australia typically earn between $75,000 and $105,000 per year in full-time employment. Salaries vary by sector (public hospital, private practice, or sports), experience level, and specialisation. Private practice ownership can generate substantially higher incomes.
Physiotherapist Salary by Experience
| Experience Level | Typical Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Graduate / new grad | $65,000–$77,000 |
| Early career (1–3 years) | $75,000–$87,000 |
| Mid-career (4–8 years) | $83,000–$97,000 |
| Senior physiotherapist | $92,000–$110,000 |
| Principal / team leader | $105,000–$125,000 |
| Private practice owner | $120,000–$200,000+ |
Physiotherapist Salary by Sector
| Sector | Typical Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Public hospital | $72,000–$110,000 |
| Private practice (employed) | $74,000–$100,000 |
| Sports physiotherapy | $78,000–$115,000 |
| Aged care | $72,000–$90,000 |
| Occupational / NDIS | $76,000–$105,000 |
| Private practice owner | $120,000–$200,000+ (variable) |
Physiotherapist Salary by State
| State | Graduate Rate | Senior Rate |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | $67,000–$75,000 | $95,000–$110,000 |
| VIC | $65,000–$74,000 | $92,000–$108,000 |
| QLD | $65,000–$73,000 | $90,000–$107,000 |
| WA | $68,000–$76,000 | $97,000–$115,000 |
| SA | $63,000–$71,000 | $88,000–$103,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do physiotherapists earn in Australia?
Full-time physiotherapists typically earn $75,000–$105,000 depending on experience and sector. New graduates start around $65,000–$77,000, while senior hospital and private practice physios earn $95,000–$120,000+.
Is physiotherapy well paid in Australia?
Physiotherapy provides above-average earnings for a bachelor-degree health profession, with good career progression and diverse employment options. Private practice ownership can generate well above the employed salary range.
Do physiotherapists earn more in public or private?
Public hospital physios have structured award rates and salary packaging benefits (reducing taxable income). Private practice employed physios earn similar base rates but without salary packaging. Practice owners earn the most but take on business risk.
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Salary data sourced from SEEK, Hays Australia, Allied Health Professionals Australia, and ABS. Figures are approximate. This is general information only.