
Allied Health courses in Ballina
Course providers in Ballina
The following providers offer Allied Health courses in Ballina.





























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Common questions
Occupational therapists help patients perform tasks in daily life, while physiotherapists help patients improve their movement, strength and function. The term occupation refers to everyday life tasks, while physiotherapy refers to physical therapy. Both are science-based allied health roles that aim to improve quality of life through prevention, maintenance and treatment.

You can become qualified to work as an occupational therapist by completing one of the following degrees, depending on your educational pathway:
- Master of Occupational Therapy (postgraduate degree)
Average duration: 24 months - Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours)
Average duration: 4 years - Bachelor of Occupational Therapy
Average duration: 4 years

You can become qualified to work as a physiotherapist by completing one of the following degrees, depending on your educational pathway:
- Doctor of Physiotherapy (postgraduate degree)
Average duration: 3 years - Master of Physiotherapy (postgraduate degree)
Average duration: 24 months - Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours)
Average duration: 4 years - Bachelor of Physiotherapy
Average duration: 4 years

Yes, you need to complete an accredited degree to work legally as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist in Australia. The two core pathways are completing a bachelor’s degree or a postgraduate degree. The Occupational Therapy Council of Australia and Australian Physiotherapy Council are responsible for accrediting such courses.

Yes, overseas-qualified practitioners can work in Australia by registering with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia or Physiotherapy Board of Australia. Practitioners who are currently registered with the Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand or Physiotherapy Board of New Zealand can apply directly for Australian registration. Other overseas-qualified practitioners have to fulfil the requirements listed on the relevant webpages of the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia and Physiotherapy Board of Australia.

If you have already completed an approved degree in a different discipline, you can gain an accredited postgraduate degree to become qualified to work as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist. Examples of such degrees are a Master of Occupational Therapy, Master of Physiotherapy and Doctor of Physiotherapy. Postgraduate degrees in these fields may have additional entry requirements, including but not limited to health-related prerequisite subjects.

In some cases, completing vocational education and training (VET) in a related discipline can allow you to meet the entry requirements for a bachelor’s degree in these fields. Entry requirements vary between educational providers. Some providers offer a VET entry pathway with a minimum of a Certificate IV, but others require a minimum of a diploma or advanced diploma. Some providers do not offer a VET pathway for these courses at all. Therefore, it’s wise to confirm the entry requirements for your desired bachelor’s degree before starting a VET course.

In addition to completing an accredited degree, occupational therapists and physiotherapists will need to register with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia or Physiotherapy Board of Australia to work in Australia. The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) administers practitioner registration on behalf of these boards. There are different requirements to gain registration for Australian-qualified practitioners, New Zealand-registered practitioners, and other overseas-qualified practitioners.

Career paths for these professions include independent contracting, starting a practice, working in community care, paediatrics, mental health, rehabilitation, disability, medical or aged care sectors).

Jobs and Skills Australia reports that the median full-time weekly earnings for occupational therapists and physiotherapists in 2024 are $1,526 and $1,710, respectively. These figures can be contrasted with Australian workers of all occupations, who earn a median full-time weekly income of $1,697.

There is a significant demand for occupational therapists across Australia. Jobs and Skills Australia’s Occupation Shortage List indicates that the labour market had a shortage of occupational therapists across all states and territories from 2022 to 2024.

There is substantial demand for physiotherapists in Australia. Jobs and Skills Australia’s Occupation Shortage List indicates that the labour market experienced a shortage of occupational therapists and physiotherapists in most states and territories from 2022 to 2024.

Working as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist comes with the satisfaction of directly helping to improve patients’ quality of life. Furthermore, the job market is promising, as Jobs and Skills Australia reports there is significant labour market demand for both professions. The future outlook is also positive, as Jobs and Skills Australia reports that the annual employment growth in 2024 for occupational therapists and physiotherapists is 2,200 and 4,100, respectively.

Further reading


What can you do with a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy)?
3rd March 2022
What can you do with a Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance?
8th January 2020All courses
- HLT33021 Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance
- HLT33021 & HLT43021 Dual Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance & Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance
- HLT43021 Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance
- HLT43021 Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Focus)
- HLT43021 Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetic Support)
- CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health
- CHC53315 Diploma of Mental Health
- HLT52021 Diploma of Remedial Massage
- HLT41120 Certificate IV in Health Care
- CHCSS00130 Individual Support - Disability
- CHCSS00133 Induction to Disability Support
- CHCSS00080 Induction to Leisure and Health
- HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing
- 22656VIC Advanced Diploma of Myotherapy
- Bachelor of Biomedical and Exercise Science
- SHB20216 Certificate II in Salon Assistant
- Master of Sport and Exercise Science
- CHCSS00111 Problem Gambling Skill Set
- Bachelor of Exercise Science (Clinical Practice)
- Associate Degree of Psychology
- CHCCCS001 Address the Needs of People with Chronic Disease
- Bachelor of Nutrition Science
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Human Physiology)
- Graduate Certificate in Global Health
- 10092NAT Certificate IV in Skills for Career Pathways
- Bachelor of Medical Science
More about Allied Health courses
If you're considering a rewarding career in the Allied Health sector, Ballina offers a variety of courses designed to equip you with the skills needed for various job roles. From Radiography and Medical Imaging to Midwifery, the training providers in this vibrant coastal town provide comprehensive education to help you succeed in your chosen field. Whether you're interested in becoming a Medical Technician or want to explore the opportunities in Massage, there are numerous pathways available right here in 2478.
In addition to traditional roles, there are also specialised courses focusing on Alternative Health and Holistic Medicine and Aboriginal Health Care, which are increasingly in demand as healthcare evolves. Training in areas like First Aid and Drug and Alcohol Testing can also enhance your employability in Ballina’s healthcare environment. The courses available cater to a range of interests and aspirations, making it easy for you to find the right fit.
Ballina is not just known for its stunning beaches and outdoor lifestyle; it's also a hub for healthcare education. Pursuing a career in the fields of Medicine or Pathology could lead you to impactful roles within local communities. By enrolling in one of the various Allied Health Courses in Ballina, you're setting the groundwork for a fulfilling job that makes a real difference in people's lives. Explore your options today and embark on your journey towards a meaningful career in Allied Health.