Learn the qualifications, registration requirements, study pathways, and career opportunities needed to become a physiotherapist in New South Wales.

Physiotherapy is one of Australia’s most rewarding allied health professions, helping people improve movement, manage pain, recover from injury, and maintain independence throughout every stage of life.

If you’re wondering how to become a physiotherapist in NSW, this guide explains the education requirements, AHPRA registration process, university options, and career opportunities available across New South Wales.

Whether you’re a school leaver, career changer, or recent graduate exploring healthcare careers, becoming a physiotherapist can open the door to meaningful work in aged care, community health, rehabilitation, disability support, and private practice.

What Does a Physiotherapist Do?

A physiotherapist is a registered allied health professional who assesses, diagnoses, and treats conditions affecting movement, mobility, strength, balance, and physical function.

Physiotherapists support people recovering from injury, surgery, illness, disability, and age-related health conditions. Their goal is to help individuals achieve their personal health and mobility goals through evidence-informed assessment, exercise, education, and rehabilitation.

Key Responsibilities of a Physiotherapist

Physiotherapists may:

• Assess physical function, strength, mobility, and balance
• Develop personalised treatment plans
• Deliver rehabilitation and exercise programs
• Support pain management and mobility goals
• Recommend mobility aids and equipment where appropriate
• Educate clients, families, and carers
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare teams
• Monitor progress and adapt treatment plans over time

Physiotherapists work across a wide range of settings throughout New South Wales, offering diverse career pathways and opportunities for professional growth.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Physiotherapist in NSW

1. Complete an Accredited Physiotherapy Degree

The first step to becoming a physiotherapist in Australia is completing an accredited physiotherapy qualification.

Common study pathways include:

• Bachelor of Physiotherapy
• Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours)
• Doctor of Physiotherapy (graduate-entry)

Most undergraduate physiotherapy degrees take four years to complete and include both academic study and practical clinical experience.

2. Complete Clinical Placements

Accredited physiotherapy courses include supervised clinical placements, allowing students to develop practical skills and experience working with clients.

Placements may occur in:

• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation services
• Residential aged care
• Disability services
• Community health settings
• Outpatient clinics

Clinical placements are an important part of preparing for professional practice and exploring different physiotherapy career pathways.

3. Apply for AHPRA Registration

To practise as a physiotherapist in New South Wales, graduates must register with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia through AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency).

Registration is mandatory before you can legally use the title “Physiotherapist” or provide physiotherapy services in Australia.

Registered physiotherapists must also meet ongoing professional development requirements throughout their careers.

Where to Study Physiotherapy in New South Wales

Several universities offer accredited physiotherapy programs in NSW.

Popular study options include:

University of Sydney

Offers a highly respected Doctor of Physiotherapy program with extensive clinical placement opportunities.

University of Newcastle

Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) with a focus on evidence-based practice and clinical learning.

Western Sydney University

Provides physiotherapy education with strong links to health services across Western Sydney.

Australian Catholic University (ACU)

Offers physiotherapy programs that combine academic learning with practical clinical experience.

Charles Sturt University

Provides opportunities to study physiotherapy with placements across metropolitan and regional communities.

When choosing a university, consider factors such as location, placement opportunities, entry requirements, graduate outcomes, and clinical interests.

Physiotherapy Career Opportunities in NSW

The demand for physiotherapists continues across metropolitan, regional, and rural areas of New South Wales.

After graduation, physiotherapists may work in:

• Residential aged care
• Community physiotherapy
• Home care services
• Hospitals
• Rehabilitation settings
• Disability and NDIS services
• Neurological physiotherapy
• Musculoskeletal rehabilitation
• Sports physiotherapy
• Private practice

Many physiotherapists choose to further develop expertise in specialised clinical areas throughout their careers.

Physiotherapy Jobs in Aged Care and Community Health

One of the fastest-growing areas for physiotherapists in NSW is aged care and community-based healthcare.

Physiotherapists working in these settings support older Australians to:

• Maintain mobility and independence
• Improve strength and balance
• Enhance confidence with daily activities
• Reduce falls risk through tailored exercise programs
• Support healthy ageing and quality of life

At Plena Healthcare, physiotherapists work alongside multidisciplinary teams to deliver person-centred allied health services that support individual goals and wellbeing.

Why Choose Plena Healthcare as a Physiotherapist?

Whether you’re a graduate physiotherapist or an experienced clinician, professional support is essential for building a sustainable and rewarding career.

At Plena Healthcare, physiotherapists benefit from:

• Structured graduate program and smooth onboarding
• Clinical mentoring and support
• Ongoing professional development opportunities
• Flexible work arrangements
• Access to multidisciplinary allied health teams
• National career pathways with local support
• Meaningful work across aged care, community, and disability services

As Australia’s largest provider of allied health services in aged care, Plena offers opportunities to build experience while making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

Start Your Physiotherapy Career in New South Wales

If you’re looking to become a physiotherapist in NSW, the pathway is clear:

1. Complete an accredited physiotherapy degree.
2. Undertake supervised clinical placements.
3. Register with AHPRA.
4. Begin your career in a healthcare setting that aligns with your interests and goals.

Physiotherapy offers diverse career opportunities, ongoing learning, and the chance to support people to maintain mobility, independence, and wellbeing throughout life.

Explore physiotherapy career opportunities with Plena Healthcare and take the next step towards a meaningful allied health career. Did you know you can start working earlier than you think?

Studying physiotherapy or occupational therapy is an exciting step towards a rewarding career. While university provides the theoretical knowledge and clinical foundations you’ll need, many students are eager to gain real-world experience before graduating.

One of the best ways to do this is by working as an Allied Health Assistant (AHA) while you complete your studies. Find out more in this Blog post: Earn While You Learn: Allied Health Assistant Jobs for Physiotherapy & OT Students

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a physiotherapist in NSW?

Most undergraduate physiotherapy degrees take four years of full-time study. Graduate-entry Doctor of Physiotherapy programs generally take three years following completion of an eligible bachelor’s degree.

What qualifications do you need to become a physiotherapist in New South Wales?

You must complete an accredited physiotherapy degree and obtain registration with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia through AHPRA.

Is physiotherapy a good career in Australia?

Physiotherapy offers a variety of career pathways across healthcare, rehabilitation, disability, community health, and aged care settings. It is well suited to people who enjoy helping others improve physical function and quality of life.

Can physiotherapists work in aged care?

Yes. Physiotherapists play an important role in aged care by supporting mobility, strength, balance, independence, and healthy ageing for older adults.

What is the average physiotherapist salary in NSW?

Salaries vary depending on experience, employer, location, and clinical area. Graduate physiotherapists typically earn less than experienced clinicians, with opportunities for salary growth as skills and responsibilities increase.

What subjects should I study to become a physiotherapist?

Biology, health sciences, physical education, mathematics, and chemistry can provide a strong foundation for entry into physiotherapy programs, although requirements vary between universities.

Earn While You Learn: Why Allied Health Assistant Roles Are Perfect for Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Students

Studying physiotherapy or occupational therapy is an exciting step towards a rewarding career. While university provides the theoretical knowledge and clinical foundations you’ll need, many students are eager to gain real-world experience before graduating.

One of the best ways to do this is by working as an Allied Health Assistant (AHA) while you complete your studies.

At Plena Healthcare, we regularly welcome physiotherapy and occupational therapy students into Allied Health Assistant roles, giving them the opportunity to earn an income, gain hands-on experience, and become part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team while continuing their education.

If you’re looking for a way to build confidence, develop practical skills, and see how your future profession works in practice, becoming an Allied Health Assistant could be the ideal next step.

What Is an Allied Health Assistant?

An Allied Health Assistant supports qualified allied health professionals in delivering services to clients across a range of healthcare settings.

Working under the guidance and supervision of experienced clinicians, Allied Health Assistants may assist with:

• Exercise and rehabilitation programs
• Therapy preparation and administration
• Supporting client engagement in activities
• Equipment preparation and management
• Clinical documentation and reporting tasks
• Group programs and wellbeing initiatives
• Assisting therapists with assessments and interventions where appropriate

For physiotherapy and occupational therapy students, these roles provide valuable insight into the day-to-day work of qualified clinicians.

Gain Real-World Experience Before You Graduate

One of the biggest benefits of working as an Allied Health Assistant is the opportunity to see how the concepts you’re learning at university are applied in practice.

Lectures, tutorials, and textbooks provide important foundations, but nothing compares to observing experienced clinicians working with clients in real healthcare environments.

As an Allied Health Assistant, you’ll gain exposure to:

• Clinical decision-making
• Professional communication
• Client-centred care
• Multidisciplinary teamwork
• Therapy planning and delivery
• Healthcare documentation
• Real-world rehabilitation and wellbeing programs

You’ll begin connecting theory with practice and develop a deeper understanding of what your future role may involve.

Learn From Experienced Clinicians and Mentors

Starting any healthcare career comes with a learning curve.

As a student, it can sometimes feel difficult to picture what life after graduation will actually look like.

By joining Plena as an Allied Health Assistant, you’ll work alongside experienced physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, speech pathologists, podiatrists, and other allied health professionals who can help guide your development.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Observe qualified clinicians in action
• Learn from experienced mentors
• Build confidence in professional environments
• Gain exposure to different areas of allied health practice
• Develop workplace skills that support future graduate roles

These experiences can help make the transition from student to clinician feel more familiar and less daunting.

Become Part of the Team Before You Graduate

One of the most valuable aspects of working as an Allied Health Assistant is becoming part of a healthcare team early in your career.

You’ll gain firsthand experience working in professional healthcare settings and develop relationships with colleagues who share your passion for helping people.

Working alongside clinicians and support teams can help you:

• Understand workplace culture
• Develop professional networks
• Learn how multidisciplinary care works in practice
• Build communication and collaboration skills
• Gain confidence interacting with clients and healthcare professionals

Many students find that this early workplace exposure helps them feel more prepared when they enter the workforce as qualified clinicians.

See the Impact of Allied Health Firsthand

There is something incredibly motivating about seeing the difference allied health services can make in people’s lives.

As an Allied Health Assistant, you’ll witness how physiotherapy and occupational therapy support people to maintain mobility, independence, confidence, and wellbeing.

Whether it’s helping an older person participate more comfortably in their daily activities, supporting a rehabilitation program, or assisting with exercises designed to improve physical function, you’ll gain valuable insight into the impact allied health can have.

For many students, these experiences reinforce why they chose their profession in the first place.

Flexible Work That Fits Around Your Studies

Balancing study, placement commitments, and work can be challenging.

That’s why many Allied Health Assistant opportunities at Plena are offered on a flexible and part-time basis, helping students gain valuable experience while continuing to focus on their education.

Working as an Allied Health Assistant can provide:

• Flexible part-time opportunities
• Practical experience alongside study
• Exposure to healthcare environments
• An opportunity to earn while you learn
• A pathway towards future allied health careers

This flexibility allows students to continue progressing through university while developing their professional skills and experience.

Support for Every Stage of Your Journey

At Plena Healthcare, we understand that every healthcare professional starts somewhere.

The transition from student to clinician comes with challenges, new experiences, and plenty of learning opportunities.

That’s why we focus on creating supportive environments where students and early-career professionals can grow with confidence.

We encourage our team members to be their best, ask questions, learn from experienced clinicians, and embrace opportunities to build their skills and knowledge.

Whether you’re studying physiotherapy or occupational therapy, working as an Allied Health Assistant can be a valuable stepping stone towards your future career.

Start Building Your Allied Health Career Today

If you’re currently studying physiotherapy or occupational therapy and looking for a meaningful way to gain experience while earning an income, an Allied Health Assistant role could be the perfect opportunity.

You’ll gain real-world experience, learn from experienced clinicians, become part of a supportive team, and develop practical skills that complement your university studies.

Most importantly, you’ll get a firsthand look at the profession you’ve chosen and the positive impact allied health can have on people’s lives.

Ready to take the next step?

Keep an eye on the Plena Healthcare Careers Page for Allied Health Assistant opportunities and other student-friendly roles.

Your future career may start sooner than you think.

If you’re wondering how to become an occupational therapist in Victoria, you’re not alone. It’s a career that’s not only in high demand but also deeply rewarding. Occupational therapists (OTs) play a crucial role in helping people of all ages live more independently, recover from injury or illness, and achieve their goals in everyday life.

Victoria is one of the best places in Australia to launch an OT career, with leading universities, diverse health services, and countless opportunities to make a difference. At Plena Healthcare, we’re passionate about supporting OTs from graduation through to advanced clinical roles, with national opportunities and strong local support.

What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?

Occupational therapists help people overcome challenges that affect their everyday routines, whether due to illness, injury, disability, developmental delays, ageing, or mental health conditions. Your role as an OT is all about supporting clients to live independently and participate fully in daily life – at home, school, work, or in the community.

You might find yourself working in a range of sectors, from community care and paediatrics to mental health, rehabilitation, or aged care. One of the most rewarding aspects of becoming an OT is that you can choose the path that aligns with your passion and interests.

Common tasks OTs undertake include:

• Assessing a client’s abilities and challenges in their daily environment.
• Developing personalised treatment plans to address specific goals.
• Running one-on-one sessions, teaching exercises or strategies to improve physical, cognitive, or emotional functioning.
• Recommending adaptations, equipment, or modifications in homes, workplaces, or schools.
• Collaborating with other health professionals to ensure care plans are effective and coordinated.
• Monitoring progress and documenting outcomes to track improvements and adjust treatment as needed.

At Plena, our OTs enjoy the variety this role offers, working with diverse clients and receiving hands-on mentoring to build confidence across all areas.

The Pathway to Becoming an Occupational Therapist in Victoria

If you’re serious about becoming an OT, here’s the step-by-step process.

Step 1: Study an Accredited Occupational Therapy Program

You’ll need to complete either:

• A Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) – typically four years of full-time study.
• A Master of Occupational Therapy Practice – usually two years, designed for those who already hold a relevant undergraduate degree (e.g. health science, psychology, biomedicine).

Both pathways include theory, practical labs, and placements.

Step 2: Clinical Placements

Accredited courses include around 1,000 hours of supervised placement. These can take place in hospitals, aged care, schools, or community settings across Victoria. Placements are a great chance to experience different areas of OT before you choose your specialty.

Step 3: Register with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia

Once you graduate, you’ll need to register with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (AHPRA). Registration ensures you meet national standards and can legally use the title “Occupational Therapist.” You’ll also complete ongoing professional development each year to maintain your registration.

Where Can You Study Occupational Therapy in Victoria?

Victoria is home to several universities offering accredited OT programs, including:

• Monash University – Offers both bachelor’s and master’s programs, with a strong focus on research and clinical placements.
• La Trobe University – Known for metro and regional campuses, making OT more accessible across Victoria.
• Deakin University – Offers a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) with strong links to clinical practice.
• Federation University – Provides a smaller, regional learning environment with personalised support.
• Swinburne University of Technology – Offers a postgraduate entry Master of Occupational Therapy Practice.

Each of these programs is accredited, meaning graduates can go straight on to register with AHPRA.

Career Opportunities for OTs in Victoria

There’s no shortage of opportunities for OTs in Victoria. Demand is especially strong in the aged care and NDIS sectors, but graduates can explore a wide range of roles, including:

• Acute care in hospitals.
• Paediatrics and developmental support.
• Community and home-based OT.
• Rehabilitation and recovery services.
• Mental health support.

Most graduate occupational therapists in Victoria can expect an entry-level salary of approximately A$70,000 to A$80,000, depending on location and sector. With experience, including senior, specialist, or leadership roles, earnings can rise into the A$90,000-$100,000+ range.

At Plena, our OTs work across aged care, community, and disability settings, giving you the chance to build your expertise in multiple areas – all with the support of a national team.

Why Choose Plena as Your Employer of Choice?

At Plena, we do things differently. We know starting out as an OT can feel daunting, so we’ve built programs and pathways that set you up for success. Here’s what you can expect when you join us:

• Extensive induction and shadowing to ease you into the role.
• Regular one-on-one mentoring with experienced OTs who’ve walked the path before you.
• A dedicated OT Clinical Development Pathway, keeping you at the forefront of best practice.
• Paid professional development sessions and allowances for external courses.
• Flexible work options to support work/life balance.
• Technology and support – you’ll be set up with the latest systems, plus clinical phone support whenever you need it.
• A team culture that celebrates success with regular social events and connection across our national OT team.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your expertise, Plena careers offer the variety, mentorship, and progression you need to thrive.

Your OT Career Starts Here

Becoming an occupational therapist in Victoria is a journey with clear steps: complete an accredited degree, gain hands-on experience through placements, and register with AHPRA. But beyond the steps, it’s a career full of purpose, variety, and real impact – a chance to help people live better lives every single day.

At Plena Healthcare, we’re more than just an employer, we’re a partner in your career. From our comprehensive graduate programs to advanced clinical pathways, mentoring, and ongoing professional development, we make sure you have the guidance, tools, and opportunities to grow and thrive.

If you’re ready to launch a career that’s rewarding, dynamic, and truly makes a difference, take the next step with Plena. 

Explore our Occupational Therapy Careers page for available positions and start your journey with us today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do occupational therapists earn?

Graduate OTs in Victoria typically start on salaries around A$70,000 to A$80,000, depending on location and sector. With experience, specialisation, or leadership roles, salaries can rise into the A$90,000-$100,000+ range. Public, private, and NDIS settings vary, but demand is strong across all sectors.

What does an occupational therapist do for a child?

OTs support children in developing skills for school, play, and daily routines. This may involve improving fine motor skills, sensory processing, or social participation. OTs also work closely with parents, teachers, and carers, providing strategies or tools to make everyday activities easier and more engaging.

What does an occupational therapist do for adults?

For adults, OTs help people regain independence and improve their quality of life. This can include rehabilitation after injury, adapting homes or workplaces, managing chronic conditions, or supporting mental wellbeing. Each treatment plan is personalised to help clients achieve meaningful goals and participate fully in daily life.

How long does it take to become an occupational therapist?

In Victoria, becoming an OT usually takes 4 years for a bachelor’s degree or 2 years for a Master of Occupational Therapy Practice if you already have a relevant undergraduate degree. This includes both classroom learning and supervised clinical placements. After graduation, registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (AHPRA) is required.

Can I become an occupational therapist without a degree?

To work as a registered OT in Australia, you must complete an accredited occupational therapy degree. There are pathways for those with related backgrounds: a postgraduate Master of Occupational Therapy Practice can be taken after completing an undergraduate degree in a related field such as health science, psychology, or biomedical science.

If you’re wondering how to become an occupational therapist in Victoria, you’re not alone. It’s a career that’s not only in high demand but also deeply rewarding. Occupational therapists (OTs) play a crucial role in helping people of all ages live more independently, recover from injury or illness, and achieve their goals in everyday life.

Victoria is one of the best places in Australia to launch an OT career, with leading universities, diverse health services, and countless opportunities to make a difference. At Plena Healthcare, we’re passionate about supporting OTs from graduation through to advanced clinical roles, with national opportunities and strong local support.

What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?

Occupational therapists help people overcome challenges that affect their everyday routines, whether due to illness, injury, disability, developmental delays, ageing, or mental health conditions. Your role as an OT is all about supporting clients to live independently and participate fully in daily life – at home, school, work, or in the community.

You might find yourself working in a range of sectors, from community care and paediatrics to mental health, rehabilitation, or aged care. One of the most rewarding aspects of becoming an OT is that you can choose the path that aligns with your passion and interests.

Common tasks OTs undertake include:

• Assessing a client’s abilities and challenges in their daily environment.
• Developing personalised treatment plans to address specific goals.
• Running one-on-one sessions, teaching exercises or strategies to improve physical, cognitive, or emotional functioning.
• Recommending adaptations, equipment, or modifications in homes, workplaces, or schools.
• Collaborating with other health professionals to ensure care plans are effective and coordinated.
• Monitoring progress and documenting outcomes to track improvements and adjust treatment as needed.

At Plena, our OTs enjoy the variety this role offers, working with diverse clients and receiving hands-on mentoring to build confidence across all areas.

The Pathway to Becoming an Occupational Therapist in Victoria

If you’re serious about becoming an OT, here’s the step-by-step process.

Step 1: Study an Accredited Occupational Therapy Program

You’ll need to complete either:

• A Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) – typically four years of full-time study.
• A Master of Occupational Therapy Practice – usually two years, designed for those who already hold a relevant undergraduate degree (e.g. health science, psychology, biomedicine).

Both pathways include theory, practical labs, and placements.

Step 2: Clinical Placements

Accredited courses include around 1,000 hours of supervised placement. These can take place in hospitals, aged care, schools, or community settings across Victoria. Placements are a great chance to experience different areas of OT before you choose your specialty.

Step 3: Register with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia

Once you graduate, you’ll need to register with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (AHPRA). Registration ensures you meet national standards and can legally use the title “Occupational Therapist.” You’ll also complete ongoing professional development each year to maintain your registration.

Where Can You Study Occupational Therapy in Victoria?

Victoria is home to several universities offering accredited OT programs, including:

• Monash University – Offers both bachelor’s and master’s programs, with a strong focus on research and clinical placements.
• La Trobe University – Known for metro and regional campuses, making OT more accessible across Victoria.
• Deakin University – Offers a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) with strong links to clinical practice.
• Federation University – Provides a smaller, regional learning environment with personalised support.
• Swinburne University of Technology – Offers a postgraduate entry Master of Occupational Therapy Practice.

Each of these programs is accredited, meaning graduates can go straight on to register with AHPRA.

Career Opportunities for OTs in Victoria

There’s no shortage of opportunities for OTs in Victoria. Demand is especially strong in the aged care and NDIS sectors, but graduates can explore a wide range of roles, including:

• Acute care in hospitals.
• Paediatrics and developmental support.
• Community and home-based OT.
• Rehabilitation and recovery services.
• Mental health support.

Most graduate occupational therapists in Victoria can expect an entry-level salary of approximately A$70,000 to A$80,000, depending on location and sector. With experience, including senior, specialist, or leadership roles, earnings can rise into the A$90,000-$100,000+ range.

At Plena, our OTs work across aged care, community, and disability settings, giving you the chance to build your expertise in multiple areas – all with the support of a national team.

Why Choose Plena as Your Employer of Choice?

At Plena, we do things differently. We know starting out as an OT can feel daunting, so we’ve built programs and pathways that set you up for success. Here’s what you can expect when you join us:

• Extensive induction and shadowing to ease you into the role.
• Regular one-on-one mentoring with experienced OTs who’ve walked the path before you.
• A dedicated OT Clinical Development Pathway, keeping you at the forefront of best practice.
• Paid professional development sessions and allowances for external courses.
• Flexible work options to support work/life balance.
• Technology and support – you’ll be set up with the latest systems, plus clinical phone support whenever you need it.
• A team culture that celebrates success with regular social events and connection across our national OT team.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your expertise, Plena careers offer the variety, mentorship, and progression you need to thrive.

Your OT Career Starts Here

Becoming an occupational therapist in Victoria is a journey with clear steps: complete an accredited degree, gain hands-on experience through placements, and register with AHPRA. But beyond the steps, it’s a career full of purpose, variety, and real impact – a chance to help people live better lives every single day.

At Plena Healthcare, we’re more than just an employer, we’re a partner in your career. From our comprehensive graduate programs to advanced clinical pathways, mentoring, and ongoing professional development, we make sure you have the guidance, tools, and opportunities to grow and thrive.

If you’re ready to launch a career that’s rewarding, dynamic, and truly makes a difference, take the next step with Plena. 

Explore our Occupational Therapy Careers page for available positions and start your journey with us today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do occupational therapists earn?

Graduate OTs in Victoria typically start on salaries around A$70,000 to A$80,000, depending on location and sector. With experience, specialisation, or leadership roles, salaries can rise into the A$90,000-$100,000+ range. Public, private, and NDIS settings vary, but demand is strong across all sectors.

What does an occupational therapist do for a child?

OTs support children in developing skills for school, play, and daily routines. This may involve improving fine motor skills, sensory processing, or social participation. OTs also work closely with parents, teachers, and carers, providing strategies or tools to make everyday activities easier and more engaging.

What does an occupational therapist do for adults?

For adults, OTs help people regain independence and improve their quality of life. This can include rehabilitation after injury, adapting homes or workplaces, managing chronic conditions, or supporting mental wellbeing. Each treatment plan is personalised to help clients achieve meaningful goals and participate fully in daily life.

How long does it take to become an occupational therapist?

In Victoria, becoming an OT usually takes 4 years for a bachelor’s degree or 2 years for a Master of Occupational Therapy Practice if you already have a relevant undergraduate degree. This includes both classroom learning and supervised clinical placements. After graduation, registration with the Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (AHPRA) is required.

Can I become an occupational therapist without a degree?

To work as a registered OT in Australia, you must complete an accredited occupational therapy degree. There are pathways for those with related backgrounds: a postgraduate Master of Occupational Therapy Practice can be taken after completing an undergraduate degree in a related field such as health science, psychology, or biomedical science.

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