Ready to study physiotherapy, paramedicine or another allied health course? From July 2027, you could receive financial support while completing mandatory work placements
Work placements are where health students swap lecture theatres for real clinics, hospitals and community settings. They’re an extremely important opportunity to build real world skills, but completing weeks of compulsory placement can make it seriously difficult to keep up a regular paid job.
That’s why the Australian Government is announcing a major expansion of the Commonwealth Prac Payment. From 1 July 2027, eligible students in 10 additional fields may be able to receive up to $338.60 per week during mandatory clinical or professional placements.
Newly included fields:
- Audiology
- Clinical psychology
- Occupational therapy
- Paramedicine
- Pharmacy
- Physiotherapy
- Podiatry
- Radiography
- Rehabilitation therapies
- Speech pathology
The payment is already available for eligible students completing mandatory placements in teaching, nursing, midwifery and social work. With the current program, eligibility depends on factors like the type and intensity of the placement, income and whether the student receives government income support.
Full eligibility details for the newly added courses are expected closer to the 2027 start date. So, keep an eye out!
Why paid placements matter
Mandatory placements are demanding. Students may need to reduce their paid work hours while also covering the costs of transport, uniforms, accommodation and other related items – sometimes while working full-time hours for free.
The payment won’t replace a full wage, but it could help more students complete their qualifications without having to choose between gaining essential experience and paying everyday bills. Hopefully it makes studying these important health fields a little more attractive too!
Time to give it a go? Your future prac placement might still involve early mornings and a carefully packed lunchbox – but soon, it could come with a little more financial breathing space.
