Occupational therapy is a very rewarding field that plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life of people with physical, mental or emotional challenges. Australia, with its diverse population and well-established health system, offers a wide range of opportunities for occupational therapists. This guide provides an overview of occupational therapy jobs in Australia, including the job market, required qualifications and advice on finding a job in this fulfilling profession.
The occupational therapy job market in Australia
Australia has a growing demand for health professionals, including occupational therapists. An aging population, along with an increased focus on mental health and disability support services, has increased the demand for occupational therapy services. Whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced therapist, there are many job opportunities across the country, particularly in urban centers such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, as well as in rural and remote areas where healthcare services are often limited.
Required Qualifications and Registration for Occupational Therapy Jobs
To work as an occupational therapist in Australia, you must meet specific educational and professional requirements:
Educational qualifications:
A bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy is the minimum requirement. Many professionals also have a master’s or graduate degree in a specialized area of occupational therapy.
Professional Registry:
All occupational therapists practicing in Australia must be registered Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (OTBA). This ensures that therapists meet national standards for practice and continue their professional development.
English language ability:
For international applicants, knowledge of English is mandatory. This can be demonstrated through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL if English is not your first language.
Visa Requirements:
If you are an international candidate, you will need a valid visa to work in Australia. The most common occupational therapist visas include: Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482) and Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)among others
Where to find occupational therapy
There are several platforms and resources available to help you find occupational therapy jobs in Australia:
Job Portals:
websites like search for, In factand LinkedIn periodically list job listings in occupational therapy. You can filter jobs by location, experience level, and specializations.
Health Procurement Agencies:
agencies like Medibank Health Solutions and HCA Allied Health specializing in placing health professionals, including occupational therapists, into positions throughout Australia.
Government websites:
of the Australian Government Job Search The website is another valuable resource for finding jobs in the healthcare industry.
Professional Associations:
The Occupational Therapy Australia The website often lists job openings and offers networking opportunities through events and conferences.
Tips for getting an occupational therapy job
1. Tailor your resume and cover letter:
Highlight your relevant experience, skills and qualifications in your resume and cover letter. Tailor these documents to each job application, emphasizing how your background fits the specific requirements of the role.
2. Gain experience:
Consider volunteering or doing an internship to gain hands-on experience, especially if you’re a recent graduate or new to the Australian job market.
3. Continue your professional development:
Keeping up to date with the latest trends and advances in occupational therapy will set you apart from other candidates. Attend workshops, online courses and conferences to improve your skills.
3. Network:
Join professional associations such as Occupational Therapy Australia to contact other professionals in the field. Networking can lead to job opportunities that are not publicly advertised.
4. Prepare interviews:
Research common interview questions for occupational therapy positions and practice your answers. Be prepared to discuss specific case studies and your approach to patient care.
Occupational Therapy Jobs Salary and Benefits
Salary for occupational therapists in Australia varies by experience, location and type of employer. On average, occupational therapists can expect to earn between Between AUD 65,000 and AUD 90,000 in the year Those working in rural or remote areas, or those with specialized skills, may earn higher wages. Benefits often include professional development opportunities, flexible work arrangements and, in some cases, relocation assistance for international candidates.
Occupational therapy is a vital and growing field in Australia, offering many job opportunities for both local and international candidates. With the right qualifications, record and a proactive approach to job hunting, you can build a rewarding career that makes a significant difference in people’s lives. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, Australia offers a supportive environment for occupational therapists to thrive.