Allied health professionals are the quiet powerhouse of Australia’s healthcare system, making up a significant portion of the clinical workforce and delivering care that transforms lives every day.
From medical imaging to mental health, allied health in Australia covers many professions. With an increasing demand for allied health professionals, there’s never been a better time to explore the opportunities in this fast-growing field.
With so many career paths to choose from, how do you know which one suits you best? This guide will help you gain a better understanding of which allied health profession to pursue by breaking down some key statistics, what the role entails and who they’re best suited for.
What is allied health?
There’s no single, universally agreed-upon definition, but broadly speaking, allied health refers to health professionals who are not part of the medical, dental or nursing professions.
In Australia, allied health professionals are qualified practitioners who are registered, licensed or accredited to prevent, diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. They often work within multidisciplinary teams, providing targeted, specialised support that complements the care nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals deliver.
A diverse and expanding workforce
Allied health is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Australia’s healthcare landscape. According to the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, there are 300,000 registered allied health professionals in Australia. Together, they deliver more than 200 million health services every year.
The field is incredibly broad, with allied health jobs in mental health, diagnostics, physical therapy, rehabilitation and more. While you might already be familiar with roles such as psychologists, counsellors, physiotherapists and nutritionists, allied health also includes lesser-known but equally vital professions such as podiatrists, speech pathologists, perfusionists, orthotists and prosthetists.
Fast facts about allied health in Australia
Why work in allied health?
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You’ll make a meaningful difference
Working in allied health means that you’ll be doing work that is both purposeful and impactful. Whether it’s helping someone improve their mobility or supporting their mental wellbeing, allied health professionals play an important role in people’s health journeys. -
Diverse job opportunities
With a wide range of professions in areas such as dietetics, art therapy, psychology and radiography, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. In addition, you can also work in a variety of settings such as schools, community health centres, hospitals and clinics. -
Strong job growth
Many allied health roles are in demand across Australia, with projections showing continued job growth in most allied health fields including speech pathology (35 per cent), social work (23 per cent) and optometry (15 per cent). -
Flexibility and adaptability
Depending on the allied health career that you pursue, some roles may offer flexible working options, part-time opportunities and the ability to move between public and private sectors. Some of the skills that you learn in your allied health career may also be transferable, giving you room to grow and adapt throughout your career. -
Collaboration and team-based care
Allied health professionals rarely work in silo. In most roles, you'll collaborate closely with other health professionals such as doctors, nurses and specialists as part of a multidisciplinary team. This collaborative environment not only enhances patient and client outcomes but also allows you to learn from others, grow your professional network and feel supported in your day-to-day work.
Which allied health career is right for you?
For those who are passionate about rehabilitation
If you’re passionate about helping people recover from injury, illness or long-term health conditions, or you find purpose in supporting others to regain their independence and quality of life, a rehabilitation-focused allied health career could be the right path for you.
There are a wide range of roles in this space, each contributing in different ways to physical, functional and cognitive recovery. While we won’t cover every profession, we’ll explore a handful of roles to help you better understand the diversity within this field and where your interests might align.
1. Allied health assistant
Think of an allied health assistant (AHA) as the helping hand to allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech pathologists.
While they don’t diagnose or treat conditions directly, they make sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes, whether it’s preparing equipment, assisting clients with rehabilitation exercises or providing essential administrative support.
💡 Allied health assistants can work in a wide range of settings from hospitals to schools, community health centres, aged care facilities and rehabilitation centres.
Job growth: Projected growth of 16 per cent over the next five years.
Salary: An average of $60,000 to $70,000 annually.
Education: Start with a Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance then consider a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance to further your skills and career options.
Who is suited to an allied health assistant role?
You may be well-suited to an allied health assistant (AHA) role if you’re:
Someone who is compassionate and people-focused
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys connecting with others and finds satisfaction in helping people be more independent. You’ll often work one-on-one with clients so being kind, patient and emotionally aware really matters.
A hands-on team player who likes to stay active
If you enjoy practical, hands-on tasks and would rather be up on your feet than behind a desk, you might enjoy this role. As AHAs work under the guidance of allied health professionals, you should also enjoy collaborating and working within a team.
Organised, adaptable and enjoys variety
Being organised and flexible is key, especially since AHAs often support multiple allied health disciplines. You should be someone who enjoys working on a diverse array of tasks everyday as one moment you might be setting up therapy equipment, the next, helping with documentation or shadowing a client session.
Someone that’s looking to enter the world of allied health quickly
You don’t need a university degree to become an AHA which makes it a great entry point for those who want to start working sooner while still gaining valuable experience. Many AHAs go on to pursue further study in areas like physiotherapy, occupational therapy or speech pathology and this role can be the perfect springboard.
2. Chiropractor
When most people think of chiropractors, they associate the profession with the distinctive click or pop that happens during spinal adjustments. While that’s certainly part of the role, there’s much more to being a chiropractor than just cracking backs.
Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the nervous system and musculoskeletal system, particularly those affecting the spine, joints and muscles.
They often work with people experiencing back pain, neck pain, headaches and muscle tension. Their treatment combines both hands-on techniques such as soft tissue therapy and hands-off approaches such as tailored exercises and postural advice.
Job growth: Projected growth of 19 per cent over the next five years.
💡There are currently 6,235 practising chiropractors, with the majority of them falling between the ages of 25 to 29.
Salary: An average of $90,000 to $100,000 annually.
Education: Complete a bachelor’s degree in chiropractic science or a related field followed by a Master of Chiropractic before registering with the Chiropractic Board of Australia.
💡Read more on how to become a chiropractor here.
Who is suited to a chiropractor role?
You may be well-suited to being a chiropractor if you’re:
Fascinated by how the body moves
If you’re intrigued by the way the human body works, particularly the spine, nervous system and musculoskeletal structure, you’ll likely enjoy being a chiropractor as it’s a role grounded in anatomy, movement and biomechanics.
Driven to help people feel and move better
Chiropractors work with people experiencing pain, discomfort or mobility issues. If you’re motivated by improving someone’s quality of life through non-invasive, hands-on care, you may thrive in this role.
Someone who enjoys building relationships with others
You’ll often work with clients over multiple sessions so being able to build trust, communicate clearly and offer ongoing support is key. If you enjoy working closely with people and seeing their progress over time, this could be the role for you.
Someone who has good manual dexterity and a steady hand
Chiropractic care involves precise, physical techniques, often using your hands to adjust joints and relieve tension. If you have good hand-eye coordination and control, you’ll likely have the fine motor skills needed to perform chiropractic techniques.
3. Exercise physiologist
Often confused with physiotherapists, exercise physiologists focus on using exercise as a tool for rehabilitation and long-term health management rather than diagnosing or treating acute injuries.
Unlike physiotherapists, they don’t perform manual therapy or clinical assessments. Instead, they specialise in clinical exercise prescription, designing and delivering personalised exercise programs for people with a range of conditions.
These conditions can include chronic diseases like diabetes, mental health conditions, musculoskeletal injuries and disabilities. For example, an exercise physiologist might work with someone recovering from a workplace injury, using structured exercise to rebuild strength, restore mobility and support a safe return to daily activities or work.
💡There are currently over 5,100 exercise physiologists employed in Australia with a median age of 29.
Job growth: Projected growth of four per cent over the next five years.
Salary: An average of $80,000 to $90,000 annually.
Education: Complete a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology before applying for accreditation through Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA).
Who is suited to an exercise physiologist role?
You may be well-suited to being an exercise physiologist if you’re:
Someone who’s interested in science and the human body
If you’re curious about how the body functions, particularly in areas like anatomy, physiology and biomechanics, this role offers the perfect blend of clinical knowledge and practical application.
Motivated by visible impact
Exercise physiologists often work with clients over time, supporting their recovery, confidence and overall function through personalised exercise programs. If you’re someone who finds meaning in seeing people regain mobility or independence, you’ll likely enjoy this role.
A strong communicator and natural motivator
You’ll need to build trust and maintain strong relationships with your clients, many of whom are managing long-term conditions. If you’re someone who communicates with empathy, encourages others and knows how to adapt your approach to suit individual needs, you may feel fulfilled in this role.
Someone who enjoys variety and working with diverse groups
Exercise physiologists work with a wide range of clinical populations from individuals recovering from injury to those living with chronic illness, disability or mental health conditions. If you’re someone who enjoys variety in your work and values the opportunity to tailor care to different needs, this role delivers exactly that.
4. Speech pathologist
Speech pathologists help people who have difficulty with communication, but their work goes far beyond just speech. They also assist individuals with other issues such as trouble with eating and swallowing as well as voice or language difficulties caused by developmental delays, illness or injury.
Speech pathologists also work with a diverse range of clients across all ages and stages of life. This might include helping a baby born with a cleft lip, supporting a teenager with a stutter or helping an adult that’s recovering from a stroke.
Job growth: Projected growth of 35 per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Ranges from $85,000 to $100,000 annually
Education: Complete a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology before applying for membership with Speech Pathology Australia.
💡Read more on how to become a speech pathologist here.
Who is suited to a speech pathologist role?
You may be well-suited to being a speech pathologist if you’re:
Someone who values communication and considers yourself an empath
You’re someone who sees communication as more than just words and understands the importance of being heard and understood. You likely enjoy listening just as much as speaking and you’re attuned to the way people express themselves even without saying much at all. If you’re naturally observant, patient and empathetic to people’s needs, this could be the role for you.
Motivated by meaningful progress
If you find value in small wins and you’re motivated by seeing people grow over time, whether it’s helping a child form a new sound or supporting an adult to rebuild their speech after an illness, you may be suited to this role.
A creative individual who enjoys thinking outside the box
Every client is different, which means no two therapy sessions are the same. Whether you’re helping a child build their language skills through play or developing personalised therapy strategies for someone recovering from illness, each day brings new challenges and opportunities to think outside the box.
Comfortable working with people of all ages
Speech pathologists can work with children, teenagers, adults and older adults, each with different needs. If you like the idea of supporting a broad range of people across different stages of life, you may enjoy this role.
For those who want to support mental health and emotional wellbeing
If you’re someone who cares deeply about helping others navigate life’s challenges and improve their mental wellbeing, there are a number of allied health careers that may be suitable for you.
While there are many roles within this space, including psychotherapists, art and music therapists and genetic counsellors, we’ll be focusing on three key professions that each play a unique role in supporting one’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.
1. Psychologist
Psychologists are trained to understand how people think, feel and behave and they use this knowledge to support someone’s mental health, emotional wellbeing and personal growth. They work with individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges such as anxiety, depression or trauma and develop evidence-based strategies and treatment plans.
Some psychologists work as generalists, supporting people across a broad range of concerns, while others choose to specialise in areas like clinical psychology, neuropsychology or organisational psychology.
💡Want to find out more about what a psychologist does? Discover what a day in the life of a general psychologist looks like.
Job growth: Projected growth of 13 per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Average annual salary of $100,000 to $110,000.
Education: It takes quite a few years to become a psychologist and it’s also highly dependent on whether you’d like to be a general psychologist or endorsed psychologist. Find out the full details on how to become a psychologist here.
💡Pivoting into psychology from another career? Take the first step by studying a Graduate Diploma in Psychology at the University of Technology Sydney or a Graduate Diploma of Psychology at Edith Cowan University.
The courses below are listed by qualification level, from lowest to highest.
Who is suited to a psychologist role?
You may be well-suited to a psychologist role if you’re:
Curious about how people think, feel and behave
Psychology is all about understanding the human mind and supporting people through emotional and behavioural challenges. If you find yourself naturally drawn to understanding what drives people such as why they act the way they do and how they process their experiences, you may be well-suited to this field. It’s also a great match for those who are intellectually curious, analytical and care about helping others make sense of their inner world.
Prepared for a long-term commitment
Becoming a psychologist takes time and there’s no shortcut. It requires years of study, supervised practice and ongoing professional development. If you’re committed and ready to put in the work, psychology can be a rewarding long-term career.
💡Considering a psychology career but unsure about the commitment? Learn more about what sustains a psychology career.
Committed to lifelong learning
This field is always evolving which means you’ll need to stay current with new research, theories and treatment approaches. If you’re naturally curious and enjoy reading, thinking critically and applying new ideas, this could be the right profession for you.
Someone who enjoys variety
Psychologists support people from all walks of life, each with their own beliefs, values and lived experiences. If you’re someone who enjoys variety, adapts well to different situations and values the opportunity to work across diverse settings and presentations, this role offers a dynamic and rewarding career path.
2. Counsellor
Counsellors support individuals through life’s challenges by offering a safe, non-judgemental space to share their thoughts. There are many different types of counsellors but at their core, they help individuals explore their feelings, improve their relationships, build coping skills and navigate difficult life experiences.
While both counsellors and psychologists work in the mental health space, there are key differences. Counsellors don’t diagnose mental health conditions or conduct psychological assessments, instead, they adopt a more person-centred approach.
💡There are currently 34,300 counsellors in Australia with 38 per cent of them holding a postgraduate qualification.
Job growth: Projected job growth of 14 per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Average annual salary of between $95,000 to $105,000.
Education: Study a Bachelor of Counselling before registering with either of the two leading professional counselling associations. Find out more about how to become a counsellor here and learn more about counsellor registration here.
💡Already have a degree or looking to upskill? Consider a Graduate Diploma in Counselling from the University of Canberra. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive course, the Master of Counselling at Edith Cowan University is a great option.
The courses below are listed by qualification level, from lowest to highest.
Who is suited to a counsellor role?
You may be well-suited to a counsellor role if you’re:
Empathetic, patient and has a strong desire to help others
Patience, warmth and a steady presence are all essential when supporting someone through life’s ups and downs. If you’re someone that people instinctively turn to when they need to talk and you’re able to empathise with them and listen without judgement, counselling might be a suitable job option.
Open-minded and emotionally mature
Counsellors work with individuals from all walks of life, facing a wide range of personal challenges. Being open to different perspectives, able to hold space for uncomfortable emotions and remain calm under pressure are all important in this role.
A strong communicator
As a counsellor you’ll need to listen with intent, ask thoughtful questions and ensure that people feel heard and understood. If you’re someone who’s a strong communicator that easily connects with others and knows how to build rapport, this role could be the right one for you.
Motivated to help people navigate life’s experiences
Whether someone is working through grief, relationship difficulties, anxiety or stress, counsellors are there to help people navigate those issues and find a way forward. If you’re someone who finds meaning in helping others grow, heal or regain confidence, this profession allows you to make a difference everyday.
3. Social worker
Social workers support individuals, families and communities through challenging times by helping them access resources, navigate systems and overcome personal challenges. There are many types of social workers and they can work with people experiencing issues such as family violence, mental health concerns and housing insecurity.
💡There are currently 46,300 social workers in Australia with a median age of 39.
Job growth: Projected job growth of 23 per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Average annual salary of between $85,000 to $105,000.
Education: Complete a bachelor’s degree in social work and register with the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). Learn more about how to become a social worker here.
💡Have a degree in another health-related field? The Master of Social Work (Qualifying) at the University of Canberra can help prepare you for a fulfilling career in social work.
Who is suited to this role?
You may be well-suited to a social worker role if you’re:
Driven to help people navigate complex challenges
If you’re motivated by making a tangible difference in people’s lives, especially during times of crisis, change or hardship, you may be well-suited to a social worker role. Social workers work alongside individuals and communities, helping them overcome barriers and work towards meaningful, often life-changing goals.
Collaborative and confident working with others
As a social worker, you’ll often engage with a wide range of professionals such as teachers, healthcare providers, housing support and even legal services. If you’re someone who works well with others, communicates clearly and enjoys being part of a broader support system, this role may suit you.
Someone who values the human aspect of care
At its heart, social work is about people and it’s integral that you’re able to see them as more than their circumstances and be willing to advocate for their dignity, rights or autonomy.
Comfortable working across diverse settings and communities
From working with families and children to supporting people with disabilities, social workers support a broad spectrum of needs. If you’re adaptable, culturally responsive and energised by variety, this career path offers dynamic and meaningful work.
For those who are interested in medical imaging and diagnostics
If you’re fascinated by how technology can help us see inside the body and want to play a role in diagnosing and monitoring health conditions, you may be drawn to the world of medical imaging and diagnostics. These roles combine technical skills with patient care and often involve working with advanced equipment to support doctors in making accurate diagnoses.
While we won’t be covering every role in this area, here are some professions in the field of medical imaging and diagnostics.
1. Nuclear medicine technologist
Nuclear medicine technologists, also known as nuclear medicine scientists, perform diagnostic imaging procedures using small amounts of radioactive materials known as radionuclides or radiopharmaceuticals. These substances are administered to patients to help create images that show how organs and tissues are functioning or to deliver targeted treatment.
They play a hands-on role in patient care, explaining procedures to clients, preparing and administering radioactive materials, receiving and reviewing referrals, operating imaging equipment and calculating doses and technical parameters for each procedure.
💡There are currently 830 nuclear medicine technologists employed in Australia with a median age of 34.
Job growth: Projected growth of 21 per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Average annual salary of between $85,000 to $105,000.
Education: Complete an undergraduate course specialising in nuclear medicine before registering with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia.
Who is suited to this role?
You may be suited to a nuclear medicine technologist role if you’re:
Someone who enjoys working with people and building genuine connections
This is a patient-focused role which suits someone that has strong interpersonal skills. You’ll be interacting with people everyday, guiding them through various procedures and helping them feel safe and supported. If you’re someone who enjoys talking to people and helping them feel at ease, this could be a suitable role for you.
A clear communicator and team player
As a nuclear medicine technologist, you’ll work as part of a multidisciplinary team which might include medical specialists, radiologists, doctors or other allied health professionals. If you’re someone that has a collaborative mindset and can communicate effectively, this may be a suitable role for you.
Technologically savvy
Operating highly specialised imaging equipment such as gamma cameras is a core part of this role, hence, the role suits individuals who are comfortable navigating different equipment and systems. With technology continually evolving, a willingness to stay across advances in medical technology is also vital in this role.
Detail-oriented and safety-conscious
This role involves calculating precise doses of radioactive materials and following strict safety protocols. If you have a strong eye for detail, a methodical approach to tasks and the ability to follow clinical procedures accurately, you’re likely to enjoy working as a nuclear medicine technologist.
2. Sonographer
Sonographers are healthcare professionals who use high-frequency sound waves known as ultrasound to produce real-time images of the inside of the body.
These images help doctors diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions from pregnancy and abdominal issues to musculoskeletal and vascular concerns. Sonographers not only operate the ultrasound equipment, but also interact closely with patients, take clinical notes and play a key role in capturing the right images to support accurate diagnoses.
💡Most sonographers work in private, community or hospital clinics with only one quarter working in public hospital departments.
Job growth: Projected job growth of 15 per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Average annual salary of between $115,000 to $135,000.
Education: You’ll need to complete an undergraduate degree in a related field like medical imaging before obtaining a Graduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound and registering with the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry (ASAR).
If you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field and have completed at least two units of degree level anatomy and physiology, you can pursue a Graduate Certificate in Ultrasound Studies followed by a Graduate Diploma in Medical Ultrasound before registering with the ASAR.
💡Learn more about how to become a sonographer here.
Who is suited to this role?
You may be suited to a sonographer role if you’re:
Empathetic and emotionally aware
As a sonographer, you’ll work with people at very different stages of health from pregnancy scans to more complex or emotionally difficult diagnostic procedures. If you’re someone who can approach patients with empathy, stay calm under pressure and offer reassurance during sensitive moments, you may be well-suited to this role.
Someone who enjoys working both independently and collaboratively
While you may interact with doctors, radiologists and other healthcare professionals, sonography is often a solo, hands-on role. If you enjoy working independently and making decisions while still being part of a larger care team, this role offers the best of both worlds.
Someone who enjoys problem-solving
Sonographers are often the first to spot subtle signs of abnormalities which means critical thinking is essential. For example, you may be scanning a patient referred for abdominal pain and notice an irregularity that prompts further investigation into something more serious. If you enjoy thinking on your feet and problem-solving, this could be the right role for you.
Detail-oriented
In sonography, even the smallest detail on a scan can make a significant difference in diagnosis. You’ll need to carefully capture high-quality images and identify subtle abnormalities in real-time. If you have a keen eye for precision and are a detail-oriented individual, you could enjoy working as a sonographer.
3. Radiation therapist
Radiation therapists are allied health professionals who play a vital role in cancer care. They plan and deliver targeted radiation treatments to help shrink or destroy tumours, working closely with oncologists and other healthcare professionals. Other than operating advanced equipment, they also support patients through sessions, providing compassionate care during what can be a challenging time for most.
💡Out of the 19,851 medical radiation practitioners registered, 14.5 per cent are radiation therapists.
Job growth: Projected growth of 13 per cent over the next five years
Salary: Average annual salary of between $90,000 to $95,000.
Education: Complete an approved qualification in radiation therapy before applying to be a radiation therapist with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA).
Who is suited to this role?
You may be suited to a radiation therapist role if you’re:
Compassionate and emotionally resilient
Radiation therapists care for people at a highly vulnerable time, often delivering treatment to patients recently diagnosed with cancer, those undergoing intensive care or those approaching end-of-life. If you’re someone who can offer warmth and reassurance, even in the face of fear or uncertainty, you’ll play a key role in helping patients feel safe and supported. While compassion is crucial, so is the emotional resilience to be present with people experiencing significant emotional and physical distress.
Someone who enjoys building relationships with others
Unlike some other healthcare roles, radiation therapists usually see patients frequently over several weeks. You’ll have the opportunity to build trust, offer encouragement and walk alongside these individuals during a physically and emotionally demanding treatment journey. If you value forming meaningful relationships and providing steady support, you’ll likely thrive in this role.
Curious and committed to continual learning
Radiation oncology is a rapidly advancing field with new treatment techniques and imaging technologies being regularly introduced to improve outcomes and reduce side effects. If you’re someone who enjoys staying current and welcomes change, this role offers lifelong learning.
Someone who enjoys thinking on their feet
As a radiation therapist, you’ll need to think quickly as you respond to anatomical changes, troubleshoot technical issues and ensure treatments are delivered safely and accurately. If you enjoy working through complex challenges and finding solutions, this role will keep you mentally engaged.
For those who want to help people improve their health through nutrition
If you’re interested in the connection between food and health, there are a number of allied health careers that focus on using nutrition to prevent and manage illness.
1. Dietitian
Dietitians are allied health professionals who are well-versed in the food and nutrition space and help people understand how their dietary choices impact their health.
They work with individuals to achieve specific nutrition goals or manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, cancer and obesity. Their work can range from individual appointments to group education sessions and even roles in public health, research, food service and policy development.
💡Though commonly confused with each other, dietitians and nutritionists aren’t the same. While both focus on nutrition, only dietitians can work in specific health settings. Learn more about the differences here.
Job growth: Projected growth of seven per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Average annual salary of between $80,000 to $95,000.
Education: You’ll need to complete an undergraduate degree in health science or nutrition and obtain accreditation from Dietitians Australia to become an accredited practising dietitian. Learn more about how to become a dietitian here.
Who is suited to this role?
You may be suited to a dietitian role if you’re:
Someone who wants to help others improve their health through nutrition
If you’d like to make a difference in people’s lives with nutrition, dietetics offers a meaningful way to do so. It’s not just about weight management, dietitians work with people across all stages of life and a wide variety of health conditions. For example, you might support someone with cerebral palsy to ensure they’re getting the nutrients they need to stay nourished, strong and well-supported in their overall care.
Looking for a dynamic and flexible career
Dietetics isn’t a one-track profession. Whether you’re drawn to clinical care, food service management or research, there are multiple ways to shape your career. If you’re someone who likes to keep learning, trying new things and developing new skills, this field offers plenty of room to grow.
Detail-focused and evidence-driven
Dietetics is rooted in science. Whether you’re planning meal strategies for hospital patients or developing community nutrition programs, the ability to interpret research, assess client needs and make informed, data-based recommendations is key. If you’re someone who values accuracy and evidence, this field will feel like a natural fit.
Someone who enjoys educating and empowering others
Dietitians do more than just recommend what to eat, they also help people understand why certain choices matter. If you enjoy breaking down complex information into relatable, easy-to-understand advice and want to empower others to make informed decisions, this role offers plenty of opportunities to do so.
2. Diabetes educator
A diabetes educator is a healthcare professional who helps people manage and understand their diabetes. They provide education, practical advice and ongoing support around blood sugar monitoring, medication, lifestyle change and emotional wellbeing. Their goal is to empower individuals to take control of their health and live confidently with the condition.
Salary: Average annual salary of between $105,00 to $120,000.
Education: You’ll need to be registered as a health professional in a discipline recognised by the Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) before completing a Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education and Management. Then, you’ll need to register with the ADEA, complete 1,000 hours of practice in diabetes education and undertake a minimum of six months of mentoring.
💡ADEA is the peak body for more than 1,600 credentialled diabetes educators.
Who is suited to this role?
You may be suited to a diabetes educator role if you’re:
Someone who’s interested in educating others about diabetes
This role is best suited to healthcare professionals with a strong interest in supporting people to better understand and manage their diabetes as the work is focused on education and includes aspects such as teaching blood glucose monitoring to guiding insulin use and suggesting lifestyle changes.
Drawn to variety within a specialised field
While diabetes education focuses on one condition, the scope of work is broad. You could be providing one-on-one education, adjusting insulin doses, supporting women through gestational diabetes, reviewing blood glucose data or delivering group sessions.
Collaborative and confident working in teams
Diabetes educators are key members of multidisciplinary care teams and frequently collaborate with GPs, endocrinologists, dietitians and nurses. If you like environments where teamwork, communication and shared decision-making are valued, you may enjoy working in this role.
Patient-focused and motivated by long-term impact
You’ll often work closely with individuals over time, supporting them through new diagnoses, lifestyle changes and ongoing management. If you’re someone who values continuity of care and finds satisfaction in helping others build confidence and independence, you’ll find this role highly rewarding.
3. Nutritionists
Nutritionists use current evidence-based practices to help individuals improve their diet and overall health. They work with people of all ages to promote healthy eating habits, prevent chronic diseases and support wellbeing through tailored nutrition plans.
While they don’t treat medical conditions in clinical settings like dietitians, nutritionists often work in community health, public health, corporate health and private clinical practice, empowering people to make informed food choices and live healthier lives.
Job growth: Projected job growth of seven per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Average annual salary of between $75,000 to $85,000.
Education: Complete a bachelor’s degree in nutrition before registering with a governing body or professional association such as the Nutrition Society of Australia (NSA). Learn more about how to become a nutritionist here.
💡There are currently 1,200 nutritionists employed in Australia with a median age of 38.
Who is suited to this role?
You may be suited to a nutritionist role if you’re:
Someone that’s curious and enjoys learning
Nutrition is a constantly evolving field that requires continuous learning and research to stay up-to-date. If you’re someone who’s naturally inquisitive and is always eager to keep expanding your knowledge, this role could be a great fit.
Someone who enjoys building relationships
Working as a nutritionist isn’t just about what’s on someone’s plate, it’s also about understanding the individual and why they’re making these food choices. To support real, sustainable change, you need to build relationships with your clients by genuinely caring about their wellbeing, showing empathy and listening without judgement.
Drawn to variety
As a nutritionist, you’ll work with people from all walks of life, each with their own goals and health challenges. If you enjoy working with a wide range of people and like the idea of applying your skills in different settings such as public health, sports nutrition or workplace wellbeing, this role offers plenty of variety and flexibility.
Someone that wants to inspire positive change in others
Helping someone improve their relationship with food can be incredibly rewarding. If you’re driven by the idea of empowering others to make healthier choices and feel better in their daily lives, you’re likely to enjoy working as a nutritionist.
For those who want to work in emergency, optometry or pharmaceutical care
These roles may sit in very different parts of the healthcare system but they each play a vital role in improving patient outcomes. In this section, we’ll focus on three distinct but equally impactful allied health professions.
1. Pharmacist
Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who ensure the safe and effective use of medicines to improve health outcomes. They work directly with patients and healthcare teams to dispense medication, review prescriptions and provide advice on the appropriate selection and potential side effects and therapeutic effects of medication.
💡As of 2024, there are currently 40,000 registered pharmacists with the Pharmacy Board of Australia and majority of them fall between the ages of 30 and 34.
Job growth: Projected growth of nine per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Average annual salary of between $90,000 to $100,000.
Education: Study a Bachelor of Pharmacy or Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) before applying for provisional registration. Then you’ll need to undertake an internship and supervised practice before applying for general registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia.
💡Learn more about how to become a pharmacist here.
Who is suited to this role?
You may be suited to a pharmacist role if you’re:
Interested in working in healthcare without direct physical care
While pharmacists don’t typically provide hands-on treatment like some other allied health roles, they still play a vital part in patient care. If you’re someone who enjoys helping people, educating patients and working behind-the-scenes to support health outcomes, working as a pharmacist offers a rewarding way to make a difference.
Detail-oriented and skilled at problem-solving
From checking prescriptions to navigating drug interactions and managing stock, you’ll need to be thorough and precise. Pharmacists are often faced with complex situations like handling insurance or regulatory requirements so strong critical thinking and a calm, solutions-focused approach is key.
Someone who appreciates variety in a structured role
Each day is different as you might be dispensing medication one moment, educating someone on a new treatment the next or administering a vaccine. If you enjoy structure but still want day-to-day variety, pharmacy could be the perfect fit.
Curious and committed to continual learning
Medication, guidelines and patients' needs are always evolving and so is the pharmacy profession. If you enjoy staying up-to-date with the latest research, expanding your clinical knowledge and adapting to changes in health policy and technology, you’ll be well-suited to the lifelong learning that comes with the role.
2. Paramedic
Paramedics are frontline healthcare professionals who respond to medical emergencies and provide critical care in high-pressure situations. They’re often the first on the scene, making quick decisions to stabilise patients, manage trauma and coordinate emergency transport.
💡As of 2023, there are a total of 24,164 registered paramedics nationally. By age, the highest number of paramedics is in the 25 - 39 age bracket.
Job growth: Job growth of eight per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Average annual salary of between $155,000 to $175,000.
Education: Study a Bachelor of Paramedicine or Bachelor of Paramedic Science and register with the Paramedicine Board of Australia. Discover more about how to become a paramedic here.
Who is suited to this role?
You may be suited to a paramedic role if you’re:
Able to think clearly under pressure
In emergencies, quick decisions can mean the difference between life and death. Paramedics need to assess situations rapidly, stay calm in high-stress moments and adapt when things don’t go to plan. If you’re someone who enjoys critical thinking and can stay composed in high-pressure situations, you could be suitable for this role.
Someone who likes variety and unpredictability
The day of a paramedic can consist of everything from helping to deliver a baby to responding to a major accident or supporting someone through a mental health crisis. If you’re looking for a job where every callout is different and each day is unique, this could be the job for you.
Physically capable
Being a paramedic is physically intense as you’ll need to lift patients and equipment and work long shifts in unpredictable environments. If you’re someone who stays active, has good physical stamina and doesn’t shy away from physically challenging tasks, you could be well-suited to the role.
Emotionally resilient and grounded
You’ll witness people in their most vulnerable moments and not every outcome will be easy. Paramedics need a steady sense of compassion but also the emotional strength to manage trauma, loss and difficult situations. If you can care deeply without being overwhelmed, you may be able to handle the emotional pressures of the role.
3. Optometrist
Optometrists are eye health professionals who assess vision, diagnose eye conditions and prescribe glasses, contact lenses or treatments to improve visual function. They’re often the first point of contact for detecting issues like glaucoma, cataracts or vision changes and play a key role in monitoring overall eye health throughout a person’s life.
💡There are 7,405 registered optometrists in Australia with majority of them falling between the ages of 25 and 29.
Job growth: Projected growth of 15 per cent over the next five years.
Salary: Average annual salary of between $100,000 to $120,000.
Education: Complete an optometrist degree that is accredited by the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand before registering with the Optometry Board of Australia. Learn more about the pathway to becoming an optometrist here.
Who is suited to this role?
You may be suited to an optometrist role if you’re:
Interested in eye health
This role is ideal for those who are fascinated by vision and how our eyes impact overall wellbeing. If you’re curious about how to detect, manage and prevent eye conditions and want to work in a field where science and clinical care intersect, optometry could be the right career for you.
Detail-focused and precise
Working with the eyes requires strong attention to detail. From examining eye structures to detecting subtle signs of disease, optometrists need to be precise in their assessments. If you’re a detail-oriented individual that’s meticulous, this role could be a good match.
Someone who’s looking for opportunities for specialisation
Optometry offers more than just working in the area of general eye care. If you’re interested in deepening your expertise, there are opportunities to specialise in fields such as paediatrics, ocular disease management and the management of contact lenses.
Someone who enjoys working closely with people
Optometrists spend much of their time with patients, listening to concerns, educating them about their eye health and helping people improve their quality of life through better vision. If you’re someone who enjoys listening, helping and being around people, this could be the profession for you.
How to choose the right allied health career?
Here are a few things to consider as you narrow down your options:
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Research, explore and ask questions
Before committing to a path, take time to explore what the role actually involves, not just the highlights. Read job advertisements, speak with professionals who work in the field or even reach out to institutions to learn more about course structures. You may discover, for example, that while you may have initially wanted to be a chiropractor, you’re actually more drawn to working as an exercise physiologist. -
Understand your personality and working style
Your personal strengths and preferences play a big part in finding the right fit. If you’re a detail-oriented individual that wants to work in a role that requires focus and precision, a career as a nuclear medicine technologist might be a suitable fit. Prefer a role that’s less structured and offers plenty of a variety? You might feel more at home working in social work.💡Take our short quiz to discover what personality type you are here.
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Consider how long it’ll take
The time it takes to begin an allied health career can vary greatly depending on the role. Some roles like becoming a psychologist require six or seven years of dedication. Others, such as becoming an allied health assistant may just take one to two years. It all depends on factors such as your previous qualifications and experience, how much time you’re willing to invest and how soon you want to start working. -
Think about your long-term goals and career growth
Career progression will look different depending on the allied health career you’d like to pursue. Roles like dietitian and speech pathologist offer the chance to specialise, pivot into research or leadership or work across sectors.Others, like allied health assistants may have more limited progression unless paired with further study. Consider where you see yourself in five to ten years and whether the role you’re exploring aligns with your long-term goals and what you’d like to achieve.
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Think about the lifestyle you want
Different roles come with different schedules, physical demands and work environments. If you’re someone who wants variety and doesn’t mind irregular hours, working as a paramedic could be a good option. Prefer a more predictable routine? Careers like counsellors or pharmacists often offer more structured hours. It’s important to think not just about what you want to do, but how you want your work to fit into your life.
💡Unsure of what healthcare career is right for you? Match your talents and interests with the health career that’s right for you with this career quiz.
Begin your career in allied health
With such a wide variety of allied health careers available, finding the right path really comes down to understanding your strengths, interests and long-term goals.
If you’re ready to start your allied health career, our university partners at GlobalHealth Education offer courses in fields such as counselling, psychology, social work, mental health and leadership.
Still not sure of what allied health career to pursue? Book a free professional development strategy call with our Education Consultant to help you determine the next step in your career.
