Occupational Therapist - Townsville, QLD

Job Description

The Occupational Therapist will assess clients’ physical, cognitive and functional needs and develop practical treatment plans to improve independence, participation and quality of life. Duties may include functional assessments, therapy interventions, equipment recommendations, documentation, care-team collaboration and progress reviews across community, clinical or workplace settings. Candidates generally need an accredited Occupational Therapy qualification, current Australian registration with AHPRA, professional indemnity insurance and relevant screening checks. Strong communication, organisation and clinical reasoning skills are expected, along with the ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. A current driver’s licence may be required for community-based work in Townsville.

Company Info

Healthcare Australia is a major Australian healthcare recruitment and workforce-solutions provider. The company connects hospitals, aged-care organisations, disability and community services, and other healthcare employers with qualified professionals, including nurses, doctors, allied health practitioners and support workers. Its services can include permanent recruitment, temporary staffing, workforce management, training and health-related operational support. Healthcare Australia operates across multiple states and territories and offers professionals access to a broad range of assignments and career opportunities. For occupational therapists, the organisation may provide opportunities in community care, rehabilitation, disability, aged care, mental health and other clinical environments. Specific duties, employment conditions, supervision arrangements and benefits vary according to the host employer and the individual position.

Destination Guide

Australia offers strong opportunities for occupational therapists in hospitals, rehabilitation, aged care, disability, community health and private practice, with regional areas such as Townsville often seeking skilled clinicians. The culture is generally informal, multicultural and outdoors-oriented, with an emphasis on work-life balance. Townsville provides a warm tropical lifestyle, access to beaches and Magnetic Island, and generally lower housing costs than Sydney or Melbourne, although transport and rental availability should be checked. Overseas occupational therapists usually need an eligible qualification, AHPRA registration and, where applicable, assessment through the Occupational Therapy Council of Australia. Common visa pathways include employer-sponsored visas, skilled migration and temporary graduate or working-holiday options, depending on eligibility. Plan for registration, police checks, health examinations, professional insurance, accommodation and taxation before relocating. Regional employment may provide valuable experience and, for some visas, additional migration advantages.