Ease of working in Australia

I am 33 years old and will be relocating to Australia for ~one year beginning the end of this year. I am an American trained physical therapist, Masters from Ohio State and Doctorate from University of Montana, have been working as a PT for 8 years now. I have researched how to make the transition and am quite confused. Any help with what type of visa I should apply for? Also does anyone have any information about ease of getting the "equivalence" instead of having to sit for the exams? Was wondering if it is better to pay $2200 and try for the equivalance or to sit for exams, I looked over application and seems that my degree was quite similar to Australian degree, but wanted to hear from someone who has gone through it. Any information will be helpful. Thanks!

Janette