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.