Why Choose Paediatrics?

Working with children offers a profoundly different rhythm from adult physiotherapy. Rather than restoring lost function, the focus is often on helping children develop movement abilities for the first time. This requires not only technical knowledge but also empathy, playfulness, and a deep understanding of child development.

Paediatric physiotherapy attracts clinicians who are curious, adaptable, and deeply motivated by the opportunity to change the course of a child’s life. Whether it’s supporting an infant through post-surgery rehab, helping a toddler take their first steps, or coaching a teen athlete after injury, the work is as varied as it is meaningful.

According to the Australian Physiotherapy Association’s Paediatric Group, physiotherapists working with children must adapt their methods to the child’s stage of development — not only physically, but also emotionally and cognitively — in order to achieve outcomes that support real participation in life.

The Breadth of Practice

Paediatric physiotherapists work with a wide age range — from newborns through to adolescents — and manage conditions such as cerebral palsy, developmental delay, muscular dystrophy, Down syndrome, autism, orthopaedic injuries, and more.

Sessions might involve balance games, motor planning exercises, or hydrotherapy. Creativity is key: therapy must be engaging, appropriate to developmental stage, and goal-focused.

Physios often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, especially under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). In these environments, collaboration with speech pathologists, occupational therapists, educators and families is vital for setting and achieving holistic goals.

Communication is the Cornerstone

Children may arrive at appointments unsure, non-verbal, or overwhelmed. Building trust takes time. But paediatric physios also work closely with the family — offering support, education, and advocacy across healthcare and school systems.

“You become part of the child’s world,” says Emma, a Brisbane-based physio. “And sometimes, the first person to say ‘I believe they can do this.’ That kind of belief can change everything.”

Where Paediatric Physios Work

In Australia, paediatric physiotherapists work across diverse settings: children’s hospitals, early intervention services, community health, schools, home-based therapy, and private practice. The growing use of mobile and telehealth services is expanding reach, especially in rural areas.

With ongoing reforms in disability care, demand is high. According to the NDIS Workforce Capability Framework, paediatric therapy is a priority area with major workforce shortages, particularly in regional communities.

Training Pathways

The first step is completing an approved physiotherapy degree — either at undergraduate or postgraduate level. You can find accredited programs via the Physiotherapy Board of Australia.

Specialisation typically occurs after graduation. Many physios gain early experience in hospital rotations or mixed-practice clinics, and then seek further training through CPD courses, mentorship, or postgraduate study.

For example, La Trobe University offers a Graduate Certificate in Paediatric Physiotherapy, designed to support working clinicians seeking deeper expertise in this field.

Emotional Realities

Paediatric physio is intensely rewarding — and emotionally demanding. Some children make rapid progress; others face long-term disability or complex diagnoses. Support often extends beyond the clinic, into schools, homes, and families' daily lives.
Jenna, who works in regional NSW, shares, “Sometimes your sessions are the best part of a kid’s week. You get to help them move, play, and feel good in their bodies. That’s powerful.”

A Profession in Demand

Demand for paediatric physiotherapists is growing across both the public and private sectors. The expansion of the NDIS has increased access to funding and services, while awareness of early intervention continues to rise.

Clinicians entering this area can expect diverse caseloads, ongoing professional learning, and work that has lasting personal impact. The need is especially great in rural Australia, where access remains limited and the opportunity to make a difference is high.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a paediatric physio means embracing a role that is playful, precise, and personal. It’s about seeing each child not only for their diagnosis but for their potential — and working creatively to help them reach it.

“You don’t always see change quickly,” says Emma. “But when a child takes their first independent step or joins their peers at school, you know you were part of something life-changing.”