Due to their emphasis on work-life balance, Wellness & Lifestyles Australia has now become the largest physiotherapy department in South Australia. Providing the most choice for staff in terms of location and hours, whilst providing care to the most number of clients compared to any other provider in the state, has now meant that W&L is the employer of choice for physiotherapists in SA.

With the number of physiotherapists now over sixty-five, W&L continues to demonstrate that it is a great place to work. Retention has always been a priority for W&L, so balancing a culture of regular social events, access to professional development, recognition of success, workplace diversity, and a supportive team environment through its team leaders have been the tools for success.

Mr Nick Heywood-Smith, CEO of W&L, said that this is a result of listening to staff.

“Innovation and change are part of our culture. Any time one of the W&L family comes to any of our management team with a suggestion, it’s always listened to. If someone has an idea that can make even a small change to our workplace, or for the care of our patients for that matter, then it’s usually taken on board”.

The W&L New-Graduate Mentor Program is one example of this. “We were a little hesitant at first” said Michael Peachey, W&L’s General Manager. “Once we had our first new-grad’s on board though, we realised their fresh perspective and enthusiasm fitted perfectly with what we’re trying to achieve”.

Now, W&L is one of the work-places of choice for physiotherapy new graduates – their program consists of an in-depth induction, a structured mentoring program, a generous professional development allowance, higher rates of pay than the public system, and access to the largest network of physiotherapists in South Australia.

* For information on the W&L Physiotherapy New-Graduate Mentor Program, call Natalie on (08) 8331 3000