What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy (OT) helps people do the things they need, want and are expected to do. That can mean relearning daily tasks after an injury, developing school and social skills in childhood, or adapting the home so an older person can live safely.

OT uses everyday activities — dressing, cooking, working, playing, learning — as therapeutic tools. The aim is not just to treat illness, but to improve a person’s ability to participate in meaningful life activities. In short: health is more than the absence of disease — it’s the ability to participate in life.

Common OT Services in Australia

Occupational therapy services are delivered across hospitals, rehabilitation centres, schools, community services and private clinics. OT is also widely funded through the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme). Typical services include:

• Rehabilitation & recovery — helping people regain independence after stroke, surgery or accidents.
• Disability support — assessing and recommending assistive equipment (wheelchairs, shower chairs, mobility aids).
• Paediatric support — helping children with autism, ADHD or developmental delays build school and life skills.
• Aged care — fall prevention, home modifications and mobility support so seniors can stay at home safely.
• Mental health & lifestyle — rebuilding routines, managing daily tasks and improving wellbeing for people with anxiety, depression or chronic conditions.

Who Can Benefit from OT?

The short answer: almost everyone. Examples include:

• People recovering from stroke, spinal cord injury or orthopaedic surgery.
• Children with autism, ADHD, or developmental delays.
• Older Australians seeking to remain safe and independent at home.
• People with chronic pain, fatigue or mental health issues that affect daily life.
• NDIS participants needing assessments, equipment or ongoing support.

OT is a person-centred practice: therapists consider the person’s roles, routines, cultural background, environment and goals — not just a list of symptoms.

Why OT Matters in Australia Today

Australia’s population is ageing and demand for disability supports through the NDIS is growing. OT plays a vital role by:

• Helping seniors stay independent at home, reducing pressure on residential aged care.
• Supporting people with disability to participate in community life with dignity and choice.
• Reducing carer burden by providing practical strategies and equipment recommendations.

In an era of changing health needs, OT provides flexible, evidence-based, and person-focused solutions that strengthen individuals and communities.

Final Thoughts

Occupational therapy is both a science and an art. It uses everyday activities to help people live healthier, more meaningful lives. Next time someone asks, “What is occupational therapy?”, a simple answer is:

Occupational therapy is a person-centred health service that empowers people of all ages to participate in the activities that matter most to them.