Occupational Therapist

About the Role

We are seeking a registered Occupational Therapist to join our allied health referral network in Newcastle. Working within the NDIS framework, you will conduct functional assessments, produce clinical reports, and support participants to achieve greater independence in their daily lives.

This is a part-time position with flexibility around your existing clinical commitments. You may be working independently in the community or in participants' homes, with access to our coordination team for administrative and logistical support.

NDIS OT experience preferred but not mandatory. We support new graduate and early-career OTs to build NDIS-specific skills under experienced supervision.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct functional capacity assessments for NDIS participants across a range of disability types
Produce high-quality functional reports for plan reviews, home modification applications, and equipment funding
Assess participants for assistive technology and equipment needs; write AT reports in line with NDIS AT Pathway requirements
Conduct home modification assessments and liaise with builders and housing providers
Deliver therapeutic interventions focused on daily living skills, fine motor development, sensory processing, and community participation
Collaborate with support coordinators, support workers, and other allied health professionals
Maintain clinical notes and documentation in line with AHPRA standards and NDIS Practice Standards
Participate in NDIS plan review meetings as required by participants
Maintain professional indemnity insurance and meet CPD requirements annually
Contribute to a growing team and share knowledge across the organisation

Essential Requirements

AHPRA Registration (OT) NDIS Worker Screening Check Valid Driver's Licence Professional Indemnity Insurance Right to Work in Australia

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from a recognised Australian university
Current and unconditional AHPRA registration with no conditions or undertakings
Strong written communication skills - able to produce clear, detailed clinical reports
Ability to work autonomously in community and home settings
Genuine interest in disability, person-centred practice, and the NDIS framework

Desirable (Not Essential)

Experience working within the NDIS system - especially with functional capacity assessments and AT reports
Experience with home modification assessments and reports
Knowledge of the NDIS AT Pathway and NATFAC process
Experience with assistive technology prescription and trial (AAC, mobility aids, seating, environmental controls)
Experience working with participants with complex needs including ABI, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, or psychosocial disability
Familiarity with Newcastle and Hunter region service landscape

What We Offer

Above-award salary - negotiated based on your experience, qualifications, and caseload

Flexible part-time hours - structure your week around clinical appointments and travel

Travel reimbursement - kilometre-based reimbursement for all client-related travel

Professional development budget - CPD activities, NDIS training, and conference attendance supported

Admin and coordination support - we handle scheduling, client communication, and billing so you can focus on clinical work

Mentoring available - early-career OTs will be supported with clinical supervision and peer review

Collaborative team - work alongside support coordinators and support workers who are invested in participant outcomes

About Safe Hands

Safe Hands is a Newcastle-based NDIS support coordination and allied health referral organisation. We work across the Hunter region to connect participants with the right supports and ensure their plans are implemented effectively. Our OT network is a growing part of what we offer, and we're committed to ensuring the practitioners we work with have the conditions they need to do their best clinical work.

Inclusive employer: We strongly encourage applications from people with disability, First Nations peoples, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

How to Apply

Apply via our careers portal, or email your resume and a brief cover letter to [email protected] with the subject line "Application - Occupational Therapist".

Please include your AHPRA registration number and a brief outline of your NDIS experience (or interest if you're new to the sector). We respond to all applications within 5 business days.

Questions about the role? Call 0485 553 397 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).