Do you need a referral to see a physio?

The short answer

In Australia you can usually book a physio yourself. You do not need a referral from a GP or specialist to be assessed and treated, whether you pay privately or claim on private health insurance.

When you can book directly

• You are paying privately
• You have private health extras cover that includes physiotherapy
• You are using NDIS funding and physio is in your plan
• You want an assessment first and will sort funding afterwards

Check your insurer’s rules. Most private health funds do not ask for a referral for physio, but policies differ.

When a referral or plan may be needed

Some funding schemes have their own rules. Always check with the funder before your first visit.

• Medicare chronic disease plan: if you have a long-term condition, your GP may prepare a plan that lets you claim a Medicare rebate on a limited number of allied health visits each year. You need the plan from your GP first
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs: treatment is generally arranged through a referral from your doctor. Check your card type and the current rules with DVA
• Workers compensation and transport accident schemes: you usually need an accepted claim, and may need a doctor’s certificate or approval from the insurer or case manager. Rules vary by state
• Public hospital or community health physio: this usually needs a referral from your doctor or hospital team

Our guide to whether Medicare covers physio explains the Medicare side in more detail.

When it is worth seeing your GP first

You do not need a referral, but a visit to your GP is a good idea if:

• Your pain followed a significant injury, fall or accident
• You have numbness, weakness, fever or unexplained weight loss
• The pain is severe, getting worse, or not improving
• You are not sure what is causing your symptoms
• You want a chronic disease plan so you can use Medicare rebates

Our back pain guide lists the warning signs that mean you should see a doctor first.

What to bring if you have a referral

Bring the referral, your Medicare or health fund card, any DVA or NDIS details, and any scans or reports. Ask the clinic what it needs before you book so there are no surprises on the day. Our guide to your first physio appointment has the full checklist.

Can a physio send you elsewhere?

Yes. If your physio thinks you need to see a doctor or specialist, or have tests, they will tell you. If your symptoms suggest something serious, they will advise you to get medical care promptly.

Common questions

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or physio about your own situation.