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An Occupational Therapy Assistant works with individual clients to deliver therapy programs. You'll follow a plan prepared by an occupational therapist and you might work in a specialist clinic or in a client’s own home. Occupational Therapy Assistants might address issues such as behavioural concerns, daily living activities or fine motor skills. You might work with people with a disability, elderly people or people who are recovering from illness or injury.
Occupational Therapy Assistants need to have strong personal skills and be able to communicate with clients with a range of needs. It’s important that you are patient and can understand your clients’ concerns. Occupational Therapy Assistants should be able to follow a therapy plan and work to correct procedures.
There are 2 courses available for people who want to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant.
Possible job outcomes:
Begin your career in the health sector with the HLT33021 Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance. This nationally recognised qualification introduces you to the health care workplace and will help you understand medical terminology and the structure of an allied health program. At the same time you’ll learn how to provide a range of therapeutic support services under the guidance of an allied health professional. The course also covers: infection controls, workplace diversity, impact of health conditions, on-the-job safety, falls prevention, healthy body systems, behaviours of concern, and much more. Enquire now for the full list of study units, allied health career outcomes, and enrolment opportunities near you..
Average duration: 12 months.
Get a support role in allied health care with the HLT43021 Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to provide therapeutic support under the guidance of an allied health professional and allows you to specialise in Movement and Mobility, Nutrition and Dietetic, Communication and Swallowing, Rehabilitation and Reablement, Medical imaging, Psychosocial, or Podiatry. The course covers: medical terminology, behaviours of concern, carer and family relationships, workplace diversity, impact of health conditions, infection controls, direct client care, and much more. Enquire now for entry requirements, allied health career outcomes, and enrolment opportunities in your area..
In Australia, a full time Occupational Therapy Assistant generally earns $1,050 per week ($54,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
There has been very strong job growth in this field over the last five years. There are currently 5,400 people employed in this industry in Australia and many of them specialise as an Occupational Therapy Assistant. Occupational Therapy Assistants may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If you’re interested in a career as an Occupational Therapy Assistant, consider enrolling in a Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Occupational Therapy). You’ll develop the skills to deliver occupational therapy programs for a range of clients. A Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance may also be appropriate.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within occupational therapy. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy Assistant
$1,050 weekly pay
Therapy Aide
Occupational Therapist
$1,630 weekly pay
Learn more about Occupational Therapy Assistant courses in your area.