Queensland launches new podiatry trainee program
16 Sep 2025
The program aims to meet the growing demand for podiatry care, especially in regional and remote areas, where foot health problems can significantly affect people’s quality of life.
Students in the program will gain hands-on experience at local Hospital and Health Services (HHSs) while studying closer to home.
Queensland Health Chief Allied Health Officer Liza Jane McBride said the program was about more than supporting students today – it was about building the podiatry workforce of the future.
“Traineeships help us attract, grow and retain future podiatrists, guaranteeing a viable and resilient workforce long-term,” Ms McBride said.
Trent Johnston, Chair of the Queensland Health Statewide Podiatry Network, said the program addressed workforce challenges, noting that as of March 2025, podiatry vacancies were 10 per cent across Queensland Health, roughly double other allied health professions.
The program is open to students enrolled at CQ University, Queensland University of Technology, and Charles Sturt University, including Charles Sturt’s new hybrid Bachelor of Podiatry Medicine, which allows mostly remote learning for regional and rural students.
“Remote study opens the profession to a whole new demographic, including those seeking a career change or who cannot relocate due to family or personal reasons,” Mr Johnston said.
The trainee program is available across Queensland, including Cairns, Mackay, Mount Isa, Rockhampton, Townsville, Brisbane and more. Queensland Health encourages all students, including First Nations students, to apply.
Applications close 24 October 2025.
For more information, visit: Podiatrist Trainee Program | Queensland Health.
Source: Queensland Health, September 2025
