Retention and attrition of chiropractors in Australia: the Workforce Retention and Attrition Project

Objective This study aims to understand workforce retention and attrition of chiropractors in Australia. Methods An online survey of chiropractors in 2024 and a retrospective analysis of 10years of Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) registration data were undertaken. Results Of 1513 surveyed chiropractors, 80.0% intended to continue in the profession, 6.6% intended to leave (excluding retirement), 6.7% were unsure, and the remainder were retired. Seventy percent of those intending to leave planned to do so within 1year. Top reasons included unsatisfactory remuneration (35.4%), lack of recognition/feeling undervalued (31.3%), work no longer professionally satisfying (31.3%), work no longer fulfilling/meaningful (29.2%), and retirement (29.2%). Those with limited registration status, working outside 20 to 49h per week, and on casual or temporary contracts are also more likely to not renew or be unsure. Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) data (2014-2023) showed a 12.2% increase in registered chiropractors per 100,000 of the Australian population and a 15.8% rise in replacement rate (with fluctuations). Conclusions The overall number of chiropractors has increased from 2014 to 2023, and the replacement rate increased from 2015 to 2023. This highlights growth in the profession despite some issues in workforce stability, particularly among those with limited registration, non-standard work hours per week, and casual/temporary contract status. Addressing intrinsic and workplace factors such as remuneration, workplace recognition, and job satisfaction may improve retention.