Clinical Assessment Overview (APEP)
The Clinical Assessment is the final stage of the Standard Assessment Pathway, now operating under the APEP format (Australian Physiotherapy Entry Pathway) since October 2025. It consists of two parts: an online Capability Assessment via video call, and an in-person Clinical Workshop at the Melbourne Simulation Lab.
Two Assessment Components
1. Capability Assessment (Online)
An oral examination conducted via video call. You can take this from your home country - no travel to Australia required for this component.
- • Live video call with assessors
- • Simulated patient scenarios
- • Clinical reasoning questions
- • Professional communication assessment
- • Stable internet connection
- • Webcam and microphone
- • Quiet, private environment
- • Valid ID for verification
2. Clinical Workshop (In-Person)
Hands-on practical assessment at the APC Simulation Lab in Melbourne. You must travel to Australia for this component.
Clinical Areas Assessed
Both the Capability Assessment and Clinical Workshop will assess your competency across the core areas of physiotherapy practice.
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions including joint, muscle, and soft tissue disorders.
- • Subjective assessment
- • Objective examination
- • Special tests
- • Clinical reasoning
- • Manual therapy techniques
- • Exercise prescription
- • Patient education
- • Treatment progression
Neurological Physiotherapy
Assessment and treatment of neurological conditions affecting movement, balance, and function.
- • Neurological examination
- • Movement analysis
- • Balance assessment
- • Functional evaluation
- • Neurorehabilitation techniques
- • Balance training
- • Gait re-education
- • Functional training
Cardiorespiratory Physiotherapy
Assessment and treatment of cardiorespiratory conditions including breathing disorders and cardiovascular rehabilitation.
- • Respiratory assessment
- • Auscultation skills
- • Exercise tolerance testing
- • Oxygen saturation monitoring
- • Breathing exercises
- • Airway clearance techniques
- • Exercise prescription
- • Patient positioning
Assessment Criteria
Assessors evaluate your performance based on Australia's entry-level competencies. The Clinical Assessment Information Booklet describes these competencies and related domains.
Clinical Competencies
- Clinical reasoning and decision-making
- Assessment techniques and skills
- Treatment planning and implementation
- Evidence-based practice
Professional Competencies
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Professional behavior and ethics
- Safety and risk management
- Documentation and record keeping
Preparation Requirements
Essential Requirements
Special Circumstances
Preparation Tips
Clinical Skills Practice
- Practice assessment techniques on colleagues
- Review special tests for each area
- Practice explaining procedures to patients
- Work on time management during assessments
Professional Development
- Gain supervised practice experience
- Attend clinical reasoning workshops
- Review Australian physiotherapy guidelines
- Practice cultural safety in clinical scenarios
Important Links
Prepare for Your Clinical Assessment
Build confidence with our clinical scenarios and practice materials designed for the simulation lab assessment