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How to Become a Physiologist: Australian Careers in Science

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What is a Physiologist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

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What is a Physiologist?

An exercise physiologist assesses, plans and runs exercise programs to prevent and manage chronic diseases and injuries. They work with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, cancer and arthritis. Their goal is to restore physical function and improve health.

Exercise physiologists are university-trained allied health professionals. They are accredited by Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). Most work in hospitals, rehab centres, community health services and private practice.

Day to day, they test patients’ fitness levels, design programs to suit each person’s needs, and track results over time. They teach patients and families how to exercise safely at home. They often work as part of a broader health team, sending patients to other specialists as needed.

The field is growing fast. Australia had more than 7,800 accredited exercise physiologists in 2024. This is up from about 5,100 in 2018 (Exercise and Sports Science Australia, 2024). Demand is strong, driven by more people living with chronic disease and an ageing population.

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Career snapshots For Physiologists

Australia had more than 7,800 accredited exercise physiologists in 2024. This was up from about 5,100 in 2018 (Exercise and Sports Science Australia, 2024). The average salary is around $85,000 a year (SEEK, 2025). Future demand is rated as strong by the Australian Government. This is driven by rising chronic disease rates and an ageing population.

About 62% of exercise physiologists work full-time, averaging 41 hours a week. Part-time work is also common, at 38% of the workforce. The median age is 29, and women make up 52% of the profession (Jobs and Skills Australia). Primary industries include health care, social assistance and arts and recreation.

What will I do?

Exercise physiologists help people improve their health and physical function through exercise. They assess each patient, design a program to suit their needs, and track results over time. They work with people managing chronic diseases, injuries and disabilities. They also help those who want to improve their fitness and quality of life.

  • Test and assess patients’ fitness and physical condition to find problems and set a baseline.
  • Design, run and adjust custom exercise programs to meet each patient’s health goals.
  • Record detailed patient histories, exercise logs and responses to treatment programs.
  • Plan strategies with patients to manage their disabilities, weight, injury or fitness needs.
  • Teach patients, their partners and families about home exercises, rehab and lifestyle changes.
  • Work with GPs, physios and other health staff to coordinate care.
  • Refer patients to specialists when their needs go beyond the exercise physiologist’s scope of care.

What skills do I need?

Exercise physiologists need a mix of science knowledge and people skills. A strong base in human anatomy, physiology and chronic disease is the foundation. On top of that, they need to assess physical conditions well. They design safe, effective programs for a wide range of people.

Good communication is key. Exercise physiologists explain health concepts in plain language to patients, families and other health staff. Empathy and patience matter just as much. Many patients are in pain or feeling low, and a good exercise physiologist knows how to motivate them. The field keeps changing, so a drive for ongoing learning is vital.

Skills/attributes

  • Knowledge of human anatomy and physiology
  • Physical fitness and health assessment skills
  • Exercise program design and prescription
  • Chronic disease management and rehabilitation knowledge
  • Clear communication with patients and health professionals
  • Empathy and ability to motivate clients
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Teamwork and collaboration with multidisciplinary health teams
  • Attention to detail in record-keeping and documentation
  • Commitment to evidence-based practice and ongoing learning
  • Understanding of Medicare, NDIS and private health funding
  • Health and safety awareness in clinical settings

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.