Starting Out as a New Allied Health Practitioner: A Guide to What You Need

Taking the leap into private practice as a new allied health practitioner is exciting but can feel overwhelming. Whether you're a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, speech pathologist, or any other practitioner, starting your own business comes with its challenges. To make the journey easier, here’s a quick summary of what you’ll need to set yourself up for success.

1. Business Structure & Registration

First, you’ll need to decide on your business structure—whether to operate as a sole trader, partnership, or company. Each comes with different legal and tax implications. Register your business name with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN).

Pro tip: Check the availability of your business name on ASIC before you start setting up your website or branding.

2. NDIS Registration

If you plan on working with NDIS participants, registration with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission is essential. This process involves submitting evidence of your qualifications, experience, and compliance with NDIS standards. Keep in mind, the process can take time, so plan ahead.

For more details on registering as a provider, visit the NDIS website.

3. Insurance

Ensure you have the right professional indemnity and public liability insurance in place. You’ll need this to cover any potential risks or claims that might arise from your work with clients. Speak to an insurance broker who specialises in allied health businesses to get the best coverage.

4. Create a Website & Digital Presence

In today’s digital age, having an online presence is vital. Create a professional website where potential clients can learn about your services and book appointments. Consider using platforms like Wix or Squarespace for easy website building. Set up social media accounts on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to connect with your audience.

Pro tip: Use SEO keywords in your website copy to help you rank higher on search engines and get noticed by potential clients.

5. Set Up Your Finances

Set up a dedicated business bank account to keep your personal and business finances separate. You’ll also need a reliable accounting system to track your income and expenses. Tools like Xero, QuickBooks, or MYOB are great options to help you manage finances and even calculate your tax obligations.

6. Set Your Fees & Billing System

Determine what your fee structure will look like. You may charge based on session, consultation, or provide package deals. Additionally, ensure you have a billing system in place to send invoices and track payments. Consider practice management software like Splose, PowerDiary, or Halaxy to automate and streamline this process.

7. Get Professional Support

It can be tough to manage all the day-to-day tasks while building your client base. Virtual assistants (VAs) who specialise in allied health, like Allied Admin Partners, can help you handle everything from scheduling appointments to managing invoices, giving you the freedom to focus on your clients.

8. Compliance & Documentation

Ensure your business is fully compliant with all regulatory requirements, including privacy laws, client consent forms, and clinical record-keeping standards. If you're an NDIS provider, you'll also need to stay up to date with NDIS rules and regulations.

9. Marketing & Networking

Once everything is in place, start marketing your services. Build relationships with other health professionals for referrals, network at local events, and leverage online advertising through platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads.

10. Continual Professional Development

Don’t forget to stay current in your field. Continually investing in your professional development through courses, seminars, and certifications will keep your skills sharp and make your practice stand out.

Starting your own allied health practice is a rewarding journey, but preparation is key. By ticking off these essential steps, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success and be ready to make a real impact in the lives of your clients.