Physiotherapist Pay Rate in SA 2025-26
Minimum pay rates for physiotherapists in South Australia under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020. Updated 1 July 2025.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Physiotherapist — Minimum Pay Rate (SA)
Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 (MA000027)
$31.35
Base rate/hr
$39.19
Casual rate/hr
Physiotherapists assess, diagnose, and treat movement disorders and physical conditions. They work in hospitals, private practices, sports clinics, and aged care facilities.
South Australia Note
South Australia workers may have state-specific entitlements. Check with SafeWork SA for occupational health requirements.
Minimum Hourly Rates — Physiotherapist
| Employment Type | Hourly Rate | Weekly (38hrs) | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time (adult) | $31.35/hr | $1,191.30 | $61,947.60 |
| Part-time (adult) | $31.35/hr | Pro-rata | Pro-rata |
| Casual (incl. 25% loading) | $39.19/hr | Varies | Varies |
Rates effective from 1 July 2025 under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020.
Penalty Rates — Physiotherapist
Saturday
$47.03/hr
1.5x base
Sunday
$62.70/hr
2x base
Public Holiday
$78.38/hr
2.5x base
Penalty rates shown for full-time/part-time Level 1 ($31.35/hr base). Casual employees receive penalty rates calculated on their base rate (before casual loading).
Classification Levels — Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020
| Level | Description | Base Rate/hr | Casual Rate/hr | Annual (38hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Year 1) | Graduate physiotherapist | $31.35 | $39.19 | $61,947.60 |
| Level 1 (Year 4+) | Experienced physiotherapist | $33.42 | $41.78 | $66,037.92 |
| Level 2 | Senior physiotherapist / specialist | $35.50 | $44.38 | $70,148.00 |
| Level 3 | Principal physiotherapist / clinic lead | $37.80 | $47.25 | $74,692.80 |
View full Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 pay rates →
Am I Being Underpaid as a Physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists in private practice are sometimes underpaid through sham contracting arrangements or flat-rate pay that doesn't account for weekend and evening clinics.
If you think you are being paid below the minimum rate, you can calculate your potential back pay and check your rights.
Check If You Are Underpaid →Related Jobs Under the Same Award
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| Dental Assistant | $24.73/hr | $30.91/hr | $49.46/hr |
| Psychologist | $33.42/hr | $41.78/hr | $66.84/hr |
| Dental Receptionist | $25.15/hr | $31.44/hr | $50.30/hr |
| Lab Technician | $26.74/hr | $33.43/hr | $53.48/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a physiotherapist get paid per hour in South Australia?
The minimum hourly rate for a physiotherapist in South Australia is $31.35/hr for full-time and part-time employees, or $39.19/hr for casuals (including 25% loading). This is the Level 1 adult rate under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 (MA000027), effective from 1 July 2025.
What is the minimum wage for a physiotherapist?
The minimum wage for a physiotherapist is $31.35 per hour ($1,191.30 per week for a 38-hour week, or $61,947.60 per year). This is set by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020. Higher classification levels attract higher rates.
What award covers physiotherapists?
Physiotherapists are covered by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 (MA000027). This Modern Award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates, allowances, and leave entitlements. Your employer may also have an enterprise agreement with different (usually higher) rates.
Do physiotherapists get penalty rates on weekends?
Yes. Under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020, physiotherapists receive 1.5x their base rate on Saturdays ($47.03/hr) and 2x on Sundays ($62.70/hr). Public holidays are paid at 2.5x ($78.38/hr).
What is the casual rate for a physiotherapist?
The casual rate for a physiotherapist is $39.19/hr, which includes a 25% casual loading on top of the base rate of $31.35/hr. The casual loading compensates for the lack of paid leave, notice of termination, and redundancy pay.
How much should a 17 year old physiotherapist get paid?
Physiotherapists are degree-qualified professionals and are not subject to junior rates. The Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 does not have specific junior rates for this classification.
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General information and estimates only — not legal, financial, or tax advice. Always verify with the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified professional.
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