Occupational therapy salary and the national average
Occupational therapists help people overcome physical, mental, or developmental challenges to perform daily activities. According to the ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours (May 2025), the median full-time weekly earnings for occupational therapists are $1,913. This is below the national full-time adult average ordinary-time earnings of $2,083.70 per week (ABS Average Weekly Earnings, May 2026).
How the figures compare
The national full-time average of $2,083.70 per week translates to about $108,352 per year (before tax). The occupational therapist median of $1,913 per week is about $99,476 per year. That is roughly 8% below the national average. However, the median is a different measure – it represents the middle point of earnings, not the mean. The national average is pulled higher by higher-paid occupations.
On an hourly basis, the median for occupational therapists is $50 per hour, based on a 38-hour week (the standard used on this site). The national full-time average hourly rate is about $54.83. The national minimum wage from 1 July 2026 is $26.44 per hour, so occupational therapists earn nearly double the minimum.
Full-time work and hours
Only 63% of occupational therapists work full-time, compared to 69% across all occupations. The average full-time hours for those in the role are 40 hours per week, slightly below the all-occupations average of 44 hours. This may affect annual earnings for those working less than full-time.
Demographics and gender
The occupation is heavily female-dominated: 92% of occupational therapists are women. The median age is 33, younger than the all-occupations median of 39. The gender composition may contribute to the pay gap relative to the national average, as female-dominated professions often have lower median earnings.
How the award applies
Occupational therapists are typically covered by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award. The award sets minimum rates for classifications ranging from Level 1 to Level 9. For example, a Level 9 pay point 3 support services employee earns $1,497.80 per week ($39.42 per hour) as of October 2026. However, occupational therapists are health professionals and would be classified at higher levels, often above the award minimum. Actual pay depends on experience, qualifications, and employer.
State and territory variations
The national full-time average varies by state. For instance, the Australian Capital Territory has the highest average at $119,090 per year, while Tasmania is lowest at $96,008. Occupational therapists may see different pay levels depending on where they work. For state breakdowns, see States and territories.
Where occupational therapy sits on the line
The site's line is the national full-time average of $108,352 per year. The median occupational therapy salary of $99,476 sits below that line. However, many occupational therapists earn above the median, especially those with experience or in senior roles. For a broader view of how different occupations compare, visit Job medians.
Tax considerations
For the 2026–27 income year, the tax-free threshold is $18,200. On a salary of $99,476, the marginal tax rate is 30% for income between $45,001 and $135,000, plus the 2% Medicare levy. The actual tax payable depends on deductions and offsets.
Summary
Occupational therapy offers solid pay above the national minimum wage but below the national full-time average. The median full-time weekly earnings of $1,913 reflect a profession that is vital to healthcare and well-being. For more detailed industry comparisons, see Industry medians.