Best Paediatric Physiotherapy in Perth

What paediatric physiotherapy involves

Paediatric physiotherapists are physiotherapists (registered with AHPRA) who focus on how children move and develop physically. They work on gross motor development — the big movements involving the arms, legs and whole body — as well as coordination, balance, strength and mobility. This might include helping a baby learn to roll and sit, supporting a toddler to walk, or helping an older child with running, jumping, catching and keeping up in sport and on the playground.

Unlike adult physio, sessions are play-based. A good paediatric physio uses games, obstacle courses and toys to keep a child engaged while working towards specific goals. They also coach parents and carers, because most progress happens through everyday practice at home, not just in the clinic.

Signs a child might benefit from support

Every child develops at their own pace, but you may want to seek advice if your child:

• Is slow to reach movement milestones (rolling, sitting, crawling, standing, walking)
• Walks on their toes persistently, or has an unusual gait
• Seems clumsy, trips or falls more than peers, or bumps into things
• Tires quickly during physical activity or avoids active play
• Has low muscle tone (feels 'floppy') or unusually stiff movements
• Struggles with skills like jumping, hopping, catching or riding a bike
• Has a diagnosed condition affecting movement (e.g. cerebral palsy, hypotonia, developmental coordination disorder, or a genetic condition)

If you have concerns, it's worth speaking to your GP, child health nurse or paediatrician, who can help you decide whether a physio assessment is a good idea. Physiotherapists don't diagnose medical conditions — they assess and support movement.

Suitable ages

Paediatric physios work with children from newborns through to teenagers. Early support (for babies and toddlers) can make a real difference, but it's never too late to seek help — school-aged children and adolescents benefit too, particularly around coordination, strength and sports participation.

What a first appointment looks like

The first session is usually an assessment. The physio will ask about your child's history, your concerns and your goals, then observe how your child moves — watching them play, walk, run and complete age-appropriate tasks. For babies, this might mean watching tummy time and how they reach and roll.

Expect the assessment to take 45–60 minutes. Afterwards, the physio should explain what they've found in plain language, suggest goals, and outline a plan — which often includes a home program. Bring any relevant reports, referrals or a list of your questions, and dress your child in comfortable clothes they can move in.

Typical costs and NDIS funding

As a general guide, paediatric physiotherapy in Australia commonly ranges from around $180 to $220+ per session, with initial assessments sometimes higher. The NDIS publishes price caps that registered providers work within, so NDIS-funded rates may differ from private fees. These figures are indicative only — always confirm current pricing directly with the provider.

Under the NDIS, physiotherapy is usually funded under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living. If your child has an NDIS plan, check which budget line your funding sits in and whether it's self-managed, plan-managed or agency-managed, as this affects which providers you can use. Some families access support through Medicare (with a GP-referred Chronic Disease Management plan, which offers limited rebated sessions) or private health extras — check your individual cover.

How to choose a provider in Perth

This page features providers across Perth, from Leederville and Nedlands to Subiaco, Wembley, Cottesloe, Mosman Park, East Victoria Park, Perth CBD and Armadale. When comparing them, consider:

• Therapist credentials. Confirm the physiotherapist is registered with AHPRA. Ask about their experience specifically with children and with your child's needs.
• NDIS registration. If you plan to use NDIS funding through an agency-managed plan, you'll need a registered NDIS provider. Self-managed and plan-managed families have more flexibility. Always confirm a clinic's registration status directly.
• Waitlists. Paediatric physio can have long waits in Perth. Ask about current waitlist length before you commit.
• Telehealth. Some providers offer telehealth for coaching and follow-ups, which can help if you're far from the clinic or between appointments. Ask whether it suits your child's needs.
• Fit with your child. A warm, playful rapport matters. If your child dreads sessions, progress stalls.
• Location and access. Consider parking, public transport and whether home or school visits are available.

Questions to ask before booking

• Is the physiotherapist AHPRA registered, and how much paediatric experience do they have?
• Are you a registered NDIS provider, and do you support plan-managed and self-managed clients?
• What's your current waitlist for a first appointment?
• What are your fees for the initial assessment and ongoing sessions?
• Do you provide a home program and parent coaching?
• Do you offer telehealth or visits to home, daycare or school?
• How will you set goals and measure progress, and how will you communicate with us?

Taking the time to ask these questions helps you find a provider who's the right fit — and gives your child the best chance to build confidence, strength and independence in their movement.