A Decade of Insights From New Graduate Physiotherapists on a Large Statewide Transition to Practice Program: A Repeated Cross‐Sectional Survey Study

ABSTRACT Backgrounds and Aims The transition period typically refers to the first 2 years of work and is known to be challenging for new graduate health professionals. Transition to practice programs are designed to provide support during this period. Limited research has examined formalized programs for physiotherapists. This study aimed to explore new graduate physiotherapists' perspectives on a statewide transition to practice program within a public health organization, focusing on satisfaction with support, perceived benefits, and areas for program improvement. Methods A repeated cross‐sectional study was undertaken. Survey data were analyzed from 701 new graduate physiotherapists who completed the program from 2016 to 2025 at 60 hospitals in New South Wales, Australia. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively to summarize participant and program characteristics and responses. Qualitative data, gathered through open‐ended text responses regarding program benefits and suggestions for improvement, were analyzed via thematic analysis. Results Most participants (93%) reported that the program provided suitable levels of support. The program's support components, including the orientation, professional development, and feedback mechanisms, were highly rated. Participants perceived that the structured, supportive environment enabled a progressive transition from university to practice. Areas for improvement included protected time for learning opportunities, strategies to prevent burnout and ongoing employment opportunities. Some participants suggested extending the program beyond 12 months. Conclusion The findings indicate that multifaceted support strategies provided via a transition to practice program, including mentoring, clinical supervision, and peer networking, play a critical role in supporting new graduate physiotherapists during their transition into the public health workforce. Whilst programs are generally perceived positively by new graduate physiotherapists, further rigorous studies are needed to establish optimal program length, structure and validated evaluation methods. This study, based on the largest known sample of transition to practice program data to date, contributes evidence to inform national practice on designing effective programs that support new graduates.