Occupational Therapy Jobs in Australia: Requirements and Salary

Occupational therapy (OT) is a vital healthcare profession that helps individuals of all ages participate in the activities and tasks that are meaningful and necessary for daily life. In Australia, the demand for occupational therapists continues to grow due to an aging population, increased focus on mental health, disability support reforms, and the expanding role of rehabilitation in healthcare. This presents a strong opportunity for both domestic and international professionals interested in pursuing a career in occupational therapy.

This article explores the occupational therapy job market in Australia, outlining the requirements, job roles, registration process, and expected salaries.

What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?

Occupational therapists in Australia work in a variety of settings to assist individuals with physical, developmental, emotional, or mental conditions. Their primary goal is to help clients gain or regain independence in their daily lives.

Key responsibilities include:

• Assessing a client’s physical and mental abilities

• Developing personalized intervention plans

• Recommending assistive technologies or home modifications

• Teaching techniques to improve motor skills or cognitive function

• Supporting children with developmental delays in schools

• Assisting elderly individuals to maintain independence

OTs work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, aged care homes, mental health clinics, schools, community centers, and private practices.

Occupational Therapy Job Demand in Australia

Australia’s demand for occupational therapists has increased significantly, particularly in rural and remote areas. Several factors are driving this demand:

• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS): The rollout of NDIS has created high demand for occupational therapy services.

• Aging population: With more Australians living longer, the need for rehabilitation and aged care services has grown.

• Mental health awareness: Occupational therapists play a critical role in community mental health programs.

• Workplace health and safety: OTs are employed to reduce injury and promote health in corporate environments.

According to Australia’s Job Outlook, employment for occupational therapists is projected to grow strongly over the next five years, with thousands of job openings expected nationwide.

Qualifications Required to Become an Occupational Therapist in Australia

To work as an occupational therapist in Australia, professionals must meet both educational and registration requirements.

1. Educational Requirements

You need to complete one of the following:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy (usually 4 years full-time)

• A Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy (for those who already have an undergraduate degree in another field)

Popular universities in Australia offering accredited OT programs include:

• University of Sydney

• Monash University

• University of Queensland

• Curtin University

• La Trobe University

2. Overseas Qualifications

If you have studied OT outside Australia, you must have your qualifications assessed by the Occupational Therapy Council (OTC) to determine equivalency. If your degree meets the standards, you can proceed to registration.

Registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)

All practicing occupational therapists in Australia must be registered with AHPRA under the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia.

Registration Steps:

1. Qualification assessment (if trained overseas)

2. English language proficiency (IELTS, OET, or TOEFL required)

3. Submit application to AHPRA

4. Provide supporting documents (ID, proof of qualification, police check)

5. Pay the registration fee

Once registered, OTs must adhere to ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and renew their registration annually.

Skills and Qualities Required

To thrive as an occupational therapist in Australia, the following skills and personal attributes are essential:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Patience and empathy

• Problem-solving ability

• Physical stamina (especially for rehabilitation roles)

• Strong documentation and organizational skills

• Cultural awareness, especially when working with Indigenous communities or immigrants

Types of Occupational Therapy Jobs Available

Occupational therapists in Australia can specialize or work in diverse sectors. Common roles include:

1. Pediatric Occupational Therapist

   • Focuses on children with developmental delays, autism, or disabilities

   • Work in schools, clinics, and early intervention centers

2. Aged Care OT

   • Helps elderly people maintain independence and prevent falls

   • Work in aged care homes and community settings

3. Mental Health OT

   • Assists individuals with mental health conditions to manage daily routines and integrate into society

4. NDIS Occupational Therapist

   • Provides therapy for individuals registered with the National Disability Insurance Scheme

5. Rehabilitation Therapist

   • Works with patients recovering from surgery, accidents, or strokes

6. Hand Therapist

   • A specialized OT working with patients recovering from hand or upper limb injuries

Salary Expectations for Occupational Therapists in Australia

The salary of an occupational therapist in Australia depends on experience, location, and the type of employment (public or private sector).

Entry-Level (0–2 years):

• $65,000 – $75,000 AUD per year

Mid-Level (3–5 years):

• $80,000 – $95,000 AUD per year

Senior/Experienced (5+ years):

• $100,000 – $120,000 AUD per year

Private Practice OT (Self-employed):

• Hourly rates range from $90 to $160 AUD, depending on services and client base

In remote areas or through agencies, OTs can earn more due to shortages and travel requirements.

Opportunities for International Occupational Therapists

Australia is welcoming to skilled healthcare professionals, including occupational therapists, through several immigration pathways. OTs are listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), which makes it easier for qualified professionals to apply for skilled migration visas.

Relevant Visas:

• Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

• Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190)

• Employer Sponsored visas (e.g., 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa)

• Working Holiday visa (for eligible countries)

With a recognized OT qualification and a successful skills assessment, international therapists have a good chance of finding employment, particularly in under-served regions.

Where to Find OT Jobs in Australia

1. Online Job Portals:

   • Seek.com.au

   • Indeed.com.au

   • HealthcareLink

   • JobSearch.gov.au

2. Specialist Recruitment Agencies:

   • Healthcare Australia

   • Sugarman Australia

   • Medacs Healthcare

3. NDIS Providers:

   • Many private companies advertise therapy roles specifically for NDIS participants.

4. Public Health Systems:

   • Each Australian state and territory has its own health service recruitment websites (e.g., NSW Health, Queensland Health).

Conclusion

Occupational therapy is a rewarding and in-demand profession in Australia. With competitive salaries, strong job growth, and multiple areas of specialization, it offers a fulfilling career path for both local and international professionals. By understanding the qualifications, registration process, and job expectations, aspiring occupational therapists can confidently begin their journey in the Australian healthcare system.

Whether you are a student choosing a career path, a foreign-trained OT looking to migrate, or a healthcare worker seeking change, Australia provides excellent opportunities to grow and make a meaningful impact through occupational therapy.

Need help getting started?
Check out the Occupational Therapy Council of Australia and AHPRA websites to begin your registration and qualification assessment process today!