Occupational Therapy Australia is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Angus Buchanan as the next Editor-in-Chief of the Australian Occupational Therapy Journal (AOTJ).

Professor Angus Buchanan DBA, DSM, BAppSci (OT), FIASSIDD, is a highly respected academic and thought leader in allied health with over 40 years’ experience advancing occupational therapy, disability services and inclusive community development. A qualified occupational therapist since 1985, he has held senior leadership roles across both the disability sector and academia, including serving as Head of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology (2015–2021) and later as Head of the Curtin School of Allied Health (2021–2024). His work is grounded in promoting the inclusion and rights of people with intellectual disabilities, and in 2024 he was awarded the WA Health Allied Health Lifetime Achievement Honour.

“I am honoured to be appointed Editor-in-Chief of the Australian Occupational Therapy Journal,” Professor Buchanan said. “I warmly acknowledge the exceptional leadership of Professor Louise Gustafsson, whose vision has continued to shape the journal’s development. As publishing rapidly evolves – with digital platforms, open access, and shifting expectations – I am committed to keeping the journal responsive, innovative, and inclusive. These changes offer exciting opportunities to expand our reach, improve accessibility, and amplify the impact of occupational therapy research. I look forward to working with our contributors, reviewers, the OTA Board, and the editorial team to uphold the journal’s prestige and further strengthen its role in the academic and professional community.”

After five remarkable years as Editor-in-Chief, Professor Louise Gustafsson will step down at the end of the year. Under her guidance, the AOTJ has thrived as a leading platform for advancing research, scholarship, and professional dialogue in occupational therapy.

OTA sincerely thanks Louise for her outstanding leadership and warmly congratulates Angus on his appointment.