Daniel White-Alikakos is the Director and Lead Physiotherapist at Leap Healthcare in Mount Waverley, where he helps clients recover from injury, improve movement, and return to the activities they love. Holding a Doctor of Physiotherapy and a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science, Daniel specialises in sports injury rehabilitation, running assessments, and strength-based recovery programs. With over a decade of clinical experience and a background as an elite-level sprinter, he delivers evidence-based care tailored to athletes and active individuals of all levels.

Many people search for free physiotherapy when dealing with pain or injury. It is a reasonable question, especially when healthcare costs add up. The short answer is that completely free physiotherapy is limited in Australia, but there are several ways costs can be reduced depending on your situation.

This article explains when physiotherapy may be free or low cost, what options exist in Melbourne, and what to be aware of before booking.

Is physiotherapy ever completely free?

In most cases, physiotherapy in Australia is not entirely free. Physiotherapists in private practice charge fees to cover time, expertise, and clinic costs.

However, there are some situations where physiotherapy may be fully funded or very low cost.

Public hospital physiotherapy

Some public hospitals provide physiotherapy services at no direct cost to patients.

This may include:

Inpatient physiotherapy after surgery
Outpatient physiotherapy for specific hospital referred conditions
Rehabilitation programs following hospital admission

Access is usually limited, involves waitlists, and requires referral through the public health system. Choice of provider and appointment frequency may also be restricted.

Medicare funded physiotherapy

Medicare does not usually provide free physiotherapy, but it can reduce the cost.

If you are eligible for a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan:

Medicare provides a rebate for up to five allied health sessions per calendar year
The rebate is currently around $61 per session
Most clinics charge a gap fee

Some clinics choose to bulk bill Medicare sessions, meaning no out of pocket cost. However, bulk billing physiotherapy is uncommon in private practice.

In Melbourne, most Medicare physiotherapy sessions still involve a gap payment.

NDIS funded physiotherapy

For eligible participants, the National Disability Insurance Scheme may fully fund physiotherapy services.

If physiotherapy is included in your approved NDIS plan:

Sessions may be covered without out of pocket cost
Access depends on plan goals and funding categories
Service availability varies by provider

NDIS funded physiotherapy is not available to everyone and requires formal eligibility.

Community health and low cost services

Some community health organisations and not for profit clinics offer low cost physiotherapy services.

These services often:

Use income based eligibility
Have limited appointment availability
Involve longer wait times

They can be a good option for people who meet eligibility criteria and are able to wait.

University and student clinics

Some universities with physiotherapy programs operate teaching clinics.

These clinics:

Are supervised by qualified physiotherapists
Are delivered by final year students
Often charge reduced fees

They are not free, but they can be more affordable for some patients.

Private health insurance and physio costs

Private health insurance extras do not make physiotherapy free, but they can reduce out of pocket costs.

Depending on your policy:

Rebates often range from $30 to $80 per session
Annual limits apply
Gap payments are still common

It is important to check your policy details before booking.

Why free physio is rare in private clinics

Physiotherapy involves assessment, hands on treatment, exercise prescription, and ongoing progression. These services require time and professional expertise.

In private practice, fees support:

One on one appointment time
Professional training and registration
Equipment and clinic costs

While free care is ideal, sustainable private physiotherapy usually involves some level of patient contribution.

What is the best option if cost is a concern?

If cost is a concern, consider:

Checking Medicare eligibility with your GP
Reviewing private health insurance rebates
Asking clinics about appointment options
Exploring community health services if eligible

Many clinics are happy to discuss fees and help you understand your options before booking.

Physiotherapy options in Mount Waverley

In Mount Waverley and surrounding Melbourne suburbs, most physiotherapy services operate as private clinics with standard fees. Medicare, private health insurance, or NDIS funding may reduce costs depending on eligibility.

Key takeaway

Completely free physiotherapy is limited in Australia. While public hospitals, NDIS funding, or rare bulk billing clinics may offer no cost care, most people will pay a gap for physiotherapy in private practice. Understanding your funding options can help reduce out of pocket costs and avoid surprises.

Important information

This article provides general information only and does not replace medical or financial advice. Please consult your GP or physiotherapist to discuss what options are suitable for your circumstances.