Occupational Therapist

Victoria's occupational therapy sector

There are approximately 7400 occupational therapists in Australia, with Victoria's share at approximately 1400.

Victoria is currently offering visa sponsorship in the allied health sector for Occupational Therapists. For a description of the tasks and duties performed by Occupational Therapists, visit the ASRI site.

Earning potential

According to the Australian Government's Job Search website, average gross weekly wages for an Occupational Therapist are A$900.

The salary and benefi ts of occupational therapists employed in publicly funded Victorian health services are generally covered by the award agreement negotiated with the Health Services Union Victoria.

Wages will vary according to your level of skill and qualification. For more information about your wage earning potential, visit some of the specialty jobseeker sites listed below under finding a job.

Licensing and registration

There are no licensing or registration requirements for Occupational Therapists working in Victoria.

Employers

Occupational Therapists work in a variety of organisations including general and children's hospitals, nursing homes, schools, prisons, rehabilitation centres,  municipal councils, centres for people with an intellectual disability and independent living centres and community health care facilities. They may also be employed in private practice, as consultants or injury management advisers. 

Industry contacts

Professional bodies and industry associations are a good source of information about occupational therapy in Victoria.

The following bodies may be relevant to Occupational Therapists:

  • Occupational Therapists Australia (OTA) represents practitioners across the country and has a Victorian branch. It also engages in advocacy work and sets professional standards.

Tip

We strongly advise you not to apply for jobs until your visa to live and work in Australia has been issued. The visa application process can take many months, and employers are unlikely to choose you for a job if you do not know when you will arrive in Australia.

Finding a job

There is a statewide demand for occupational therapists in Victoria. Specialties in greatest demand include driving assessment, mental health, pediatrics and working injury.

Specialty job seeker sites:

To search for Victorian recruiters who specialise in occupational therapy, visit the Recruitment and Consulting Services Association's Member Index.

For information about Victoria’s health workforce visit the Department of Human Services website.

For more general information on Victoria’s job market, including where and how to find jobs, and workplace culture, visit our Working & Employment section.

Migrating to Victoria

To find out about how to migrate to Australia, including information about visa nomination from the Victorian Government, visit our Visas & Immigrating section.

Skill Assessment Information

In order to migrate to Victoria, you will also need to have your skills assessed as part of the application process. For more information, see the Occupational Therapist Assessment Information Sheet.

Also See

Last updated: 15 July 2009

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State Government of Victoria