Dr Rik Dawson is a gerontological physiotherapist, post-doctoral researcher at the Institute for Musculoskeletal Health at the University of Sydney, and President of the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA). A former Managing Director of Agewell Physiotherapy, his research focuses on advancing physiotherapy, exercise, and telehealth interventions to improve mobility and reduce falls among older adults. His work has informed the upcoming Australian Fall Prevention Guidelines and supported the integration of telehealth physiotherapy in aged care, expanding access in rural and underserved communities. Dr Dawson has contributed to key aged care policy reforms, including shaping the forthcoming Support at Home program and expanding access to restorative care packages. He has played a leading role in national advocacy efforts, contributing to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, serving as physiotherapy subject matter expert in the Aged Care Quality Standards, and supporting the Department of Health’s Scope of Practice Review.As the APA’s national media spokesperson, Dr Dawson is a recognised leader in health communication. He also brings commercialisation expertise as director of TOP UP Therapy, a digital health initiative providing consumer access to evidence-based fall prevention programs.