Physiotherapy vs Exercise Physiology: What's the Difference on the NDIS?
Physiotherapy vs exercise physiology on the NDIS: what each does, where they overlap, who each suits, and how to choose (or use both) for your goals.
Physiotherapists and exercise physiologists both work on movement, strength and function, so it's easy to assume they do the same job. They don't. This guide explains what physiotherapy and exercise physiology each offer on the NDIS, where they overlap, who each one suits, and how to choose — or use both together.
The quick distinction
What a physiotherapist does
What an exercise physiologist does
Where they overlap
Who each one suits
How to decide
Finding the right professional
Frequently asked questions
Can the NDIS fund both a physio and an exercise physiologist?
Yes, if both are reasonable and necessary for your goals — for example, a physiotherapist for a specific problem and an exercise physiologist for an ongoing program. Your plan needs enough therapy funding to cover the hours, so scope it clearly.
Which is cheaper on my plan?
Both are billed at allied health rates, so cost per session is broadly similar. The bigger saving usually comes from matching the right professional to the goal, and from using a therapy assistant for supervised, repetitive sessions where appropriate.
Do I need a referral?
The NDIS doesn't require a GP referral to see either one under your plan. That said, a GP or OT recommendation helps you pick the right professional and supports the reasonable and necessary case at plan review.
Can a support worker run my exercise program?
Sometimes — a support worker or therapy assistant can help you carry out a program the physiotherapist or exercise physiologist designed and supervises. They can't design or change the program themselves.
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