The Future of Disability Physiotherapy Is at Risk: Why We Must Act Now

In recent weeks, significant concern has been growing across the physiotherapy and disability communities following the National Disability Insurance Agency’s (NDIA) decision to lower price limits and reduce travel funding for physiotherapy services. As the founder of Flipper Academy, a hydrotherapy-based physiotherapy service operating in South Australia—I feel compelled to raise awareness of the profound implications these changes will have on participants, providers, and the broader disability support system.

A Vital Service at Risk

 

Flipper Academy was established two years ago with a simple but powerful vision: to combine the therapeutic benefits of physiotherapy with learn-to-swim programs in a safe, supportive aquatic environment. Prior to our service, families were often forced to choose between low-cost swim classes led by unqualified instructors or costly one-on-one therapy sessions that lacked a learn-to-swim focus.

We set out to bridge that gap. Our model, which has gained significant traction in the disability community, delivers affordable, targeted, and engaging therapy sessions— run by qualified physiotherapists—helping children achieve physical milestones, improve confidence, and participate more fully in everyday life.

But the NDIA’s new pricing structure threatens to unravel this progress. A $40 per hour reduction in the physiotherapy price limit, paired with sharp cuts to travel funding, will have far-reaching and damaging consequences. Every family that relies on our services will feel the impact. What was previously included within the general class fee will now need to be charged as additional costs to ensure we can continue delivering high-quality, ethical, and clinically appropriate care, while supporting our staff and sustaining the integrity of our service.

Real Stories, Real Impact

To understand what’s at stake, consider just a few stories shared by families who have participated in our program:

“Thank you so much for getting Felix's confidence up in the water. After five years with another provider and no progress, he’s now jumping in, swimming underwater, and showing me all his strokes—even butterfly! We are so grateful. You’ve made such a difference.”— A grateful parent

“A young girl with post-polio upper limb weakness learned to adapt her swimming with one-arm freestyle and recently swam 50m at her first school carnival, placing 4th.”

“Just wanted to say thank you for Rupert’s first session. He had a blast, and when we got home, he was full of energy and moving so much more freely. We can’t wait to come back.”— Parent feedback

These aren’t just feel-good stories—they’re powerful examples of how tailored physiotherapy can transform lives.

The Consequences of Cuts

These price reductions, introduced after five years of frozen rates, come at a time of rising inflation, increasing operational costs, and growing demand for quality care. The consequences are already becoming clear:

• Longer wait times and care delays

• Increased hospital visits and injury recurrence

• Reduced access to services in rural and regional areas

• Clinician burnout and worsening workforce shortages

• Talented professionals leaving the field entirely

Physiotherapists are essential to the success of the NDIS. We are key to helping participants build independence, avoid preventable injuries, and remain active in their communities. Yet, the current funding model is driving experienced clinicians out of the profession and making it impossible for many services, especially small, innovative programs like ours, to survive.

What Needs to Change

These changes, due to come into effect on 1 July, could result in the collapse of the NDIS physiotherapy workforce. The risk is not just to providers, it’s to the very people the NDIS was designed to support. Without urgent intervention, participants may lose access to care altogether or be forced to turn to emergency departments for support that could have been avoided with proactive therapy.

We’re calling on government leaders, including Minister Mark Butler and Senator Jenny McAllister, to listen to the concerns of our community and take action. The physiotherapy sector deserves a seat at the table in discussions that directly affect participant outcomes. We need a fair, sustainable pricing structure that recognises the value of allied health professionals and ensures long-term support for Australians living with disability.

Standing Together for Our Community

At Flipper Academy, we remain committed to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care. But we cannot do it alone. It’s time to stand up for the future of physiotherapy within the NDIS - before it’s too late.

If you are a provider, participant, family member, or advocate, we urge you to speak out. Share your story. Contact your local MP. Let’s work together to protect choice, access, and dignity for every individual who relies on the support of physiotherapy to thrive.

Chelsea Marchetti

Director & Lead Physiotherapist, Flipper Academy

Chelsea.marchetti@flipperacademy.com.au

0408 666 725