It is illegal to practice podiatry unless registered. All practitioners are encouraged to join the Australian Podiatry Association which is a professional group that promotes continuing education and post graduate studies. A requirement of continued membership of the professional association is practitioners continue preofessional education for the duration of their professional life. Both academic and practical training programs are available to all graduate practitioners. Practitioners contemplating starting or purchasing a practice are advised to consult a solicitor and an accountant in order to prepare a business plan before seeking financial loans.
Many new graduates work for several years as assistants before embarking in business for themself.
There are some positions within the public health services for podiatrists but most practitioners work within the private sector of health care. Hospital appointments are reasonably common and most out patient facilities are directed toward the care of people suffering from diminished circulation and or nerve supply. The range of practice includes pedicure to minor foot surgery under local anaesthesia. Podiatrists regularly prescribe foot orthoses and exercises as well tend to wounds and ulcerations. A major contributiion to the foot health of the nation is simple common sense advice on hygiene and foot care.