Celebrating more than 26,000 occupational therapists during OT Week 2021

25 Oct 2021

The Occupational Therapy Board of Australia (the Board) has more than 26,000 reasons to celebrate Occupational Therapy Week (OT Week) 2021.

As of 30 September 2021, there are 26,021 registered occupational therapists in Australia. 

OT week, which coincides with World Occupational Therapy Day on 27 October, is an important opportunity to reflect on the work occupational therapists do to support the health of the community. The theme of OT week this year is participation, inclusion and independence. 

‘Happy OT Week to all our hardworking practitioners. It is a great reflection on the passion, enthusiasm and dedication of all of you that not only do you continue to work in your meaningful roles but that the profession continues to grow. Despite a global pandemic, you have shown resilience and a commitment to helping your patients. Thank you,’ Board Chair, Julie Brayshaw, said.

OT at a glance:

• As at 30 September 2021 there were 26,021 registered occupational therapists, an increase of 389 since the last quarter and an increase from 13,611 when the profession became nationally registered. This includes practitioners that have joined the 2021 pandemic sub-register. 
• The majority of the profession work in New South Wales (27.32%), Victoria (25.84%) and Queensland (20.01%). 
• Nearly 91% of the profession is female and 9.6% of the profession is male.
• Practitioners within the ages of 25-39 represent the largest cohort for the profession

For more information about the profession visit here, you can find more about the work of the Board by visiting the Board’s website.