Rik Dawson commences as APA president
Aged care is among priority areas for the Australian Physiotherapy Association, the peak body’s new president Dr Rik Dawson tells AAA.

With the new year, Dr Rik Dawson – a post-doctoral researcher from the Institute for Musculoskeletal Health at the University of Sydney – has begun his role as national president of the Australia Physiotherapy Association.
Formerly vice president of the peak body, Dr Dawson was named president elect last year and will occupy the position for two years from 1 January 2025.
During this time Dr Dawson said he would prioritise advocating for the role of physiotherapy within Australia’s broader healthcare system and also for specific funding for allied health services within aged care residential facilities.

“Physiotherapy is vital in preventing falls, maintaining mobility, and enhancing the quality of life for older Australians. Current funding gaps often overlook these essential services,” Dr Dawson told Australian Ageing Agenda.
“A recent trial of group exercise in residential aged care to reduce falls was funded by several Primary Health Networks around the country, and they found that it was a safe, acceptable, and effective method to reduce falls.
“Dedicated funding for a national rollout of this program would ensure aged care residents receive the comprehensive support they need to age with dignity and independence.”
Dr Dawson is a graduate of the University of Sydney, a gerontological physiotherapist, a former chair of the APA Gerontology Group and the APA’s representative at the National Aged Care Alliance.
He is also the previous owner and operator of Agewell Physiotherapy, a leading practice delivering residential and community aged care services nationwide. Since selling the practice in 2020, he has focused on post-doctoral research, specialising in telehealth, fall prevention, frailty, and enhancing the quality of life for older adults.
He succeeds Scott Willis who was the first Indigenous man elected as national president of the APA and held the position for four years.
Dr Dawson said he was honoured to represent the physiotherapy profession.
“Every day, I see the difference physiotherapists and other allied health professionals make – changing lives in aged care, disability, primary, and acute care. The Australian healthcare system is stronger when allied health is adequately funded and supported,” he said.
“I am honoured to lead the APA at this pivotal time and am committed to building on the achievements of my predecessors. Together with consumer groups and other health care peak bodies, I look forward to advancing physiotherapy to benefit individuals, communities, and Australia’s healthcare system,” Dr Dawson told AAA.
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