Group
Occupation

262431 Physiotherapist

Latest release
Consultation draft: Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA)
Reference period
August 2026
Released
17/08/2026
Next release Unknown
First release

262431 Physiotherapist

Assesses, diagnoses, treats and prevents disorders in human movement caused by injury or disease.

Registration or licensing is required.

Alternative title

  • Physical Therapist

Specialisations

  • Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist
  • Neurological Physiotherapist
  • Paediatric Physiotherapist
  • Sports and Exercise Physiotherapist

Skill level: 1

Main tasks

  • Administers muscle, nerve, joint and functional ability tests to identify and assess patients' afflictions
  • Treats patients to reduce pain, improve circulation, strengthen muscles, improve cardiothoracic, cardiovascular and respiratory functions, restore joint mobility, and improve balance and coordination
  • Treats patients using the therapeutic properties of exercise, heat, cold, massage, manipulation, hydrotherapy, electrotherapy, ultraviolet and infra-red light, and ultrasound
  • Reviews, monitors, assesses and evaluates programs and treatments
  • Consults with other Health Professionals about patients' conditions, needs and progress
  • Educates patients on their physical health conditions, and provides them with structured management plans
  • Advises patients, families and guardians about procedures to be practised at home
  • Maintains records of patients' treatments, responses and progress
  • Develops and implements screening and preventative health promotion programs
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