Northern Health is proud to celebrate Advanced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist Bridget Shaw, who has been awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of her “significant service to physiotherapy, to clinical training, and to advanced practice leadership.”

Bridget’s achievement reflects an outstanding career dedicated to improving patient care, advancing the physiotherapy profession, and shaping the future of healthcare.

Currently working in the Orthopaedic Spinal Surgical Clinic, Bridget brings a wealth of experience from her previous advanced practice role in the Emergency Department. Her career spans multiple dimensions of healthcare, including clinical practice, education, research, leadership and advocacy.

Reflecting on her journey, Bridget shares: “My roles have spanned from clinician, educator, clinician researcher, health manager, project manager and leadership and advocacy to support improving patient care and advancing the physiotherapy profession and our scope of practice.”

Her impact extends well beyond Northern Health. Bridget has worked closely with the Department of Health, public health services and the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA), contributing to key initiatives that expand the scope and impact of physiotherapy.

She has held numerous influential leadership roles within the APA, including Victorian Chair for the Advanced Practice Physiotherapy Group, National Chair of the Physiotherapists in Management Group, and Victorian Branch President. She continues to help shape the future of the profession as a representative on the Physiotherapy Board of Australia Prescribing Working Group and the APA Advanced Practice Career Pathway Working Party.

Bridget is a passionate advocate for the critical role physiotherapists play in the healthcare system: “Physiotherapists are pivotal to improving productivity and safe care in our health system… providing evidence-based, value-based care across the entire health spectrum,” she said.

At the heart of Bridget’s work is a deep commitment to people, both patients and colleagues. She acknowledges the influence of those she has worked alongside: “I have had the privilege of working with many inspiring colleagues… Beyond their skills, their everyday kindness – rooted in respect, empathy, and compassion – has truly anchored my own roles in clinical practice and leadership.”

Uyen Phan, Associate Director Allied Health – Physiotherapy & Exercise Physiology, shared his pride in Bridget’s achievement: “The award recognises Bridget’s dedication, contribution and leadership in the physiotherapy profession over the past 40 years. Bridget is an inspiring leader, expert clinician, supportive mentor, agitator for change, wonderful role model, colleague and friend to so many.”

A/Prof Jason Cirone, Chief Allied Health Officer, also congratulated Bridget on this outstanding achievement. “We are so very proud and pleased for you. With your incredible contribution to our profession, you are truly deserving of this award. Well done.”

Congratulations, Bridget, we are immensely proud to have you at Northern Health!