FAQ: Early Career

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

The role of Allied Health Assistants in Supporting Occupational Therapy Practice (October 2015)

For many years allied health (OT) assistants have been part of many public sector occupational therapy departments. With the increased opportunities for assistants arising from the NDIS and aged care reforms and with many workforce reviews in progress by Governments, Occupational Therapy Australia, like many of our other allied health association colleagues, have been developing position statements to guide practice in this area.

Position Statement: The Role of Allied Health Assistants in Supporting Occupational Therapy Practice (2015)

This position paper defines the roles, scope, and operational and professional responsibilities of Allied Health Assistants (AHAs) in the delivery of occupational therapy in hospital and the community. The paper provides a structure for occupational therapists to effectively supervise and delegate to AHAs, and will assist occupational therapists in understanding the clinical governance requirements in facilitating the AHA role within an occupational therapy service.