If you’re a student or parent exploring career options in Australia’s booming healthcare sector, Nursing vs Physiotherapy in Australia is a common dilemma. Both are highly respected, in-demand professions with excellent job prospects and structured permanent residency (PR) pathways.
But how do they compare in terms of course structure, career outcomes, job security, and migration benefits? Let’s explore both options in a balanced, fact-based guide.
Nursing vs. Physiotherapy in Australia, PR Pathways: Strong for Both Professions
Both Nursing and Physiotherapy are listed on Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making them PR-friendly fields. Graduates from either stream are eligible for visas such as:
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent)
- Subclass 190 (State Sponsored)
- Subclass 491 (Regional)
- Employer-Sponsored PR (Subclass 186, 482)
Course Comparison: Duration, Cost & Entry Requirements
| Criteria | Nursing | Physiotherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Course Type | Bachelor of Nursing | Bachelor of Physiotherapy |
| Duration | 3 years | 4 years |
| Eligibility | +2 Science, IELTS 7.0 | +2 Science (Biology), IELTS 7.0 |
| Tuition (Approx./Year) | AUD 32,000 – 40,000 | AUD 35,000 – 45,000 |
Choose Nursing if you want a quicker route to the workforce.
Choose Physiotherapy if you’re passionate about movement science, rehabilitation, and one-on-one care.
Nursing vs. Physiotherapy in Australia: Career Opportunities & Job Security
| Profession | Common Workplaces | Job Demand |
|---|---|---|
| Nurses | Hospitals, aged care, mental health, community health | Extremely high (nationwide) |
| Physiotherapists | Rehabilitation centers, clinics, hospitals | High in both public & private sectors |
Nursing jobs are often easier to secure due to high demand across various specialties. Physiotherapy roles are more focused, often in urban or private practice settings.
Both offer job security, but the choice depends on your preferred work environment.
Salary Overview in Australia
| Role | Estimated Salary (AUD/year) |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $70,000 – $95,000 |
| Mental Health / Aged Care RN | $75,000 – $100,000 |
| Physiotherapist (New Grad) | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| Experienced Physiotherapist | $85,000 – $110,000 |
Nursing generally starts with a slightly higher entry salary, while physiotherapists can earn more over time through specialization or private practice.
Salary isn’t everything– both careers offer solid growth and income.
Regional Migration Advantage
Both Nursing and Physiotherapy are in high demand in regional areas, offering benefits like:
-
Bonus PR points
-
Lower cost of living
-
Longer post-study work visas
-
Easier job placements
Top regional destinations: Tasmania, Gold Coast, Adelaide, Geelong, and Newcastle.
Which One Should You Choose?
There’s no universal “better” choice. It depends on your interests and career goals.
Choose Nursing if:
-
You enjoy patient care in hospitals or aged care
-
You want to enter the workforce quickly
-
You seek broader job options across settings
Choose Physiotherapy if:
-
You love rehabilitation, sports science, or long-term patient care
-
You’re comfortable with a longer academic program
-
You prefer a specialized, one-on-one treatment approach
Career Clarity for Students & Parents
Whether you’re from India, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, or any international destination – both Nursing and Physiotherapy in Australia are future-proof career choices. With strong PR potential, job security, and high global demand, either pathway can lead to a successful, meaningful career.
Need Help Choosing the Right Course or University?
Contact Guide to Heights for a free one-on-one consultation today.
