Professor of Physiotherapy

About The Team

The School of Allied Health at Murdoch University is renowned for its collaborative and supportive culture, strong industry partnerships and deep community engagement. Our staff work closely across disciplines to drive innovation and excellence in both education and research. With a strong focus on interprofessional learning and community-based clinical education, we are proud to produce graduates who are not only work-ready but also compassionate and committed to improving health outcomes.

As part of our exciting expansion, the new Physiotherapy discipline will play a pivotal role in addressing workforce needs and enhancing Murdoch's reputation as a leader in integrated allied health education. You'll be joining a university that embraces diversity, sustainability and innovation and is united by the commitment to "Ngala Kwop Biddi – Building a brighter future, together."

Your New Role  

Murdoch University is launching an exciting new Physiotherapy discipline within our School of Allied Health—and we're looking for an outstanding academic leader to bring it to life.

As Professor and Head of Physiotherapy, you'll lead the development and delivery of a brand-new program that will play a key role in addressing workforce needs and advancing allied health education in Western Australia. From curriculum design and accreditation to research leadership and clinical partnerships, you'll guide the program from the ground up.

This is your opportunity to:

• Lead a new discipline in a supportive, forward-thinking university

• Drive innovation in physiotherapy education and research

• Build strong industry and community partnerships

• Foster interprofessional collaboration across allied health disciplines

We're seeking an academic with a strong track record in physiotherapy education, research and leadership. You'll be passionate about mentoring staff, enhancing student outcomes, and contributing to a culture of excellence and inclusion.

Join us at Murdoch University and help us build a brighter future—together.

Please refer to the Candidate Pack for further details.

What We Offer You

This Continuous | Full Time (37.5 hours per week) based at our South Street, Murdoch Campus attracts a remuneration of $209,366 (pro rata) plus 17% employer superannuation contributions.   

You'll join a dynamic and talented team where diversity and innovation thrive. Our Silver-tier status in the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI), awarded in 2025, reflects our commitment to LGBTIQA+ inclusion, equity, and creating a safe, welcoming environment for all. We strive to be the university of choice for First Nations peoples, honouring Indigenous knowledge. Sustainability is central to our community and guided by clear, confident leadership, we are working toward an ambitious future with goals of net zero emissions and zero waste by 2030.

As well as the flexibility to maintain a work life balance, our staff enjoy a vibrant, natural campus with world-class facilities, along with a variety of benefits, including:

• Periodic salary increases between 1 January 2026 to 1 July 2026 totalling a 4% increase

• Flexible work arrangements

• Cultural Load and allowance - providing up to $8,944 per year to First Nations employees who are contributing cultural knowledge and perspectives beyond the scope of their role

• Indigenous Language Allowance

• Salary packaging options – such as purchasing leave, gym membership, car parking permit

• Employee Assistance Program

• On-campus services and facilities, such as a Childcare Centre, Gym, Vet Hospital, and Chiropractic Clinic

For further information, check out our benefits and services page

Join us

Please apply online via the Apply Now button, along with submitting the following documents to support your application -

• A cover letter including a statement addressing the selection criteria (with reference to the Position Description)

• Your most recent resume (CV)

What you'll bring to the role:

• A doctoral qualification in Physiotherapy or a closely related field.

• Registration (or eligibility for registration) with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia.

• Demonstrated experience leading accredited health professional programs, with deep understanding of accreditation and quality assurance frameworks.

•  A sustained record of research, external funding and scholarly achievement, consistent with appointment at Academic Level E.

• Strong leadership and mentoring capability, fostering a collegial and high-performing culture.

• Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and First Nations engagement in education and research.

Applicants should refer to the Position Description for further details on the work requirements, duties, skills and experience required for this role. Applications sent by post or email will not be accepted.

Visa sponsorship and relocation may be available for the right candidate.

Please see the Applicant Guide for more information. Applicants who have support or access requirements, are encouraged to advise this at the time of their application, to ensure appropriate assistance is provided throughout the recruitment process.

Contact Us

For enquiries about the opportunity on offer please reach out to Brad Wall, Dean of Allied Health and quote JR104494 as the reference.

Applications Close on 22 November :59pm AWST)

The University reserves the right to withdraw this advertisement at any time.

Murdoch University acknowledges the different perspectives, skills and experience that people from different backgrounds bring to strengthen its workforce. Murdoch University is committed to enhancing diversity in all its forms and strongly encourages suitably qualified candidates from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, people with disability, people of CaLD background and people of diverse genders to apply for this important position.

Murdoch University values workplace diversity, promotes inclusion, and strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, women, and individuals with disability. Applicants who have support or access requirements, are encouraged to advise this at the time of their application, to ensure appropriate assistance is provided throughout the recruitment process.