Unlocking opportunities for children with motor coordination difficulties

This evidence-informed session will exploring how occupational therapists can use neuro-affirming, practical strategies and real-world case studies to enhance participation and outcomes for individuals with motor coordination difficulties across school, home, and community settings.

Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for Occupational Therapy Practice

This interactive workshop introduces participants to the core elements of motivational interviewing and how they can utilise in their practice.

Oedema: How to identify, assess & manage

This workshop will provide an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of oedema as well as the underlying mechanisms of oedema development. The occupational therapy role in the management of oedema will be a key focus.

CPD EMPOWER: Feeding Assessment and Intervention with Children

This practical two-day workshop will guide occupational therapists through the assessment and intervention of feeding and eating difficulties in children. You’ll learn structured approaches to assessment and intervention, while exploring the impact of positioning, oral-motor skills, routines, and family dynamics. With a strong focus on responsive, family-centered practice and applying a neuroaffirming lens, this workshop will strengthen your confidence and clinical decision-making.

CPD EMPOWER: Understanding Child Development & Assessment Fundamentals for 0-5 years

This interactive two-day workshop is designed for occupational therapists working with children aged 0–5 years. Day one builds a strong foundation in early child development, while day two focuses on practical assessment skills and tools. With a blend of evidence-based knowledge, clinical insights, and hands-on strategies, you’ll leave with greater confidence to support children and families in your practice.

OT Role in Diagnostic Assessments: Navigating Australia’s New FASD Guidelines

This session explores how occupational therapists can play a vital role in FASD diagnostic assessment across the lifespan by understanding the new FASD Guidelines (2025), the nine impacted developmental domains, and practical pathways to becoming a FASD-informed practitioner who supports individuals and families to access appropriate funding and care.

Bridging OT and Education Frameworks: Aligning Practice to Support Neurodiverse Learners

This interactive session will explore collaborative, neuro-affirming strategies and practical evidence based supports to create inclusive classrooms, particularly for children with prenatal alcohol exposure and other neurodevelopmental differences.

Using MOHO to Inform Practice

This interactive session will explore the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) in a clear, accessible way. Through considering examples from diverse settings, you’ll discover how MOHO can deepen your understanding of clients, support assessment and guide therapy.

Environmental Home Modifications – The Basics

This two-day practical workshop equips occupational therapists with foundational skills in environmental modifications, focusing on measurement, design, clinical reasoning, and client-centred approaches. Participants will gain hands-on experience, learn to apply legislation and best practices, and build confidence in designing and documenting home modifications.

The Year You Thrive – A Burnout Prevention Blueprint for OTs

This session will provide occupational therapists with practical strategies to prevent burnout, manage stress, and sustain wellbeing in their high-demand, complex roles. Participants will create a personalised Burnout Action Plan to support them to reconnect with professional purpose, build resilience, and thrive in their careers.

Early Career Launchpad

Launch into your new career path with confidence! OTA's Early Career Support is the place to connect with your peers and your profession, develop your professional skills, discover and access the benefits of OTA membership, and find answers to common questions about working in OT.

December Interest Groups

Ready to be inspired and energised with like-minded peers? Explore our December Interest Groups. Interest Groups bring together OTs focused on different areas of practice to discuss relevant topics and new developments. The meetings offer peer and expert support, networking and learning opportunities.

November Interest Groups

Mark your calendars! It’s time to be inspired and energised with like-minded peers in our November Interest Groups sessions.

FAQ: Early Career

Frequently asked questions about starting your career as an occupational therapist.

The enduring value of professional development for Occupational Therapists

In today’s dynamic healthcare landscape, professional development is not just a recommendation for occupational therapists – it is essential to ethical, safe and effective practice.

Mid Career Researcher Award

This award is one category of OTA's Research Awards, which acknowledge a member’s contribution towards the advancement of the research base of occupational therapy in four categories: early career researcher, mid career researcher, clinical researcher, and research team.

Early Career Researcher Award

This award is one category of OTA's Research Awards, which acknowledge a member’s contribution towards the advancement of the research base of occupational therapy in four categories: early career researcher, mid career researcher, clinical researcher, and research team.

Essential Supports for Early Career OTs

Essential Supports for Early Career OTs (Essential Support Guide) outlines the minimum recommended supports that Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) advises for early career occupational therapists.