Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know
Medicare referrals, NDIS, cost, what to expect, the difference from physios — all answered.
GETTING STARTED
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly and self-fund. But if you have a chronic condition, your GP can refer you under a Medicare Chronic Disease Management plan — up to 5 subsidised sessions per year. Call us on 0409 051 260 and we’ll tell you exactly what to ask your GP for in 5 minutes.
What does 'Start Your Plan' mean?
It takes you to our booking page where you choose a location, a date and a time for your initial assessment. The booking takes about 60 seconds. We confirm within 1 business day. You come in — we take care of the rest.
How soon can I start?
Most clients start within 1–2 weeks of first contact. Medicare and NDIS referrals are prioritised. WorkCover and TAC clients can often be seen sooner. Call 0409 051 260 or book online.
What happens in my first appointment?
Your initial appointment is a full 45-60 minute assessment. We review your medical history, current medications, lifestyle and goals. We perform functional tests relevant to your condition. You leave with a clear understanding of your plan. No surprises, no pressure.
cost & funding
How much does it cost?
Costs vary by session type and funding. Under Medicare, most clients pay a small gap fee. Under DVA, eligible veterans may pay nothing. Under NDIS, sessions are billed to your plan. Under WorkCover or TAC, sessions are billed directly. Call 0409 051 260 or visit our Pricing page. We’ll always be upfront about costs before you commit.
Is Exercise Physiology covered by Medicare?
Yes — if your GP writes a Chronic Disease Management plan including Exercise Physiology. This gives you up to 5 subsidised sessions per calendar year. Exactly what to say to your GP: “I’d like a Chronic Disease Management plan that includes Exercise Physiology at Beachside Exercise Physiology.”
Do you accept NDIS clients?
Yes. Registered NDIS provider. NDIA-managed, plan-managed and self-managed accepted. Clinic sessions and group classes available.
Is there a long-term commitment?
No. You can start with a single session — no lock-in, no long-term contract. We recommend structured programs because that’s what produces the best results. But you’re never locked in. If we’re not the right fit, we’ll tell you.
About Exercise Physiology
What's the difference between an Exercise Physiologist and a Physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists specialise in diagnosing and treating acute injury and pain. Exercise Physiologists specialise in clinical exercise prescription for complex, chronic and long-term conditions — delivering structured, measurable programs that produce results where other treatments haven’t. We work alongside physiotherapists, GPs and specialists as part of your broader care team, and are often the missing piece for people who have tried everything else and aren’t getting the outcomes they need.
What's the difference between an Exercise Physiologist and a Personal Trainer?
Exercise Physiologists hold a minimum 4-year university degree and are recognised clinical practitioners — registered with Medicare, DVA, NDIS and WorkCover. Personal trainers work with people for general fitness goals. If your situation involves a medical condition or injury, you need an Exercise Physiologist.
Do you track my progress?
Yes — we track strength scores, pain scores, blood glucose trends and functional capacity at every review. You see your improvement in actual data. Structured progress reports are sent to your GP or specialist after every review.
Still have a question?
Call us on 0409 051 260 — or book your first appointment and we’ll answer everything in person.
👉 Start Your Plan (Book Your First Appointment)✓ We’ll tell you honestly if we can’t help — no obligation
✓ Start with one session — no lock-in, no long-term commitment required
✓ No referral needed to make your first enquiry