Occupational Therapist - Early Start Australia Graduate Program

Program overview

Early Start Australia’s graduate pathway is built to help new Occupational Therapists transition smoothly from study into professional practice. From the outset, you’ll join a close and supportive allied health environment where teamwork, learning, and long-term professional relationships are part of everyday work. You’ll be guided through clinical supervision, mentoring, and training so you can build confidence while contributing meaningfully to the wellbeing of children and their families.

Graduate program structure

This is a 12-month graduate program created to support your development into an independent therapist. The program includes a structured onboarding experience, practical clinical learning, and gradual progression into a full caseload.

• Comprehensive induction with clinical skills training and a dedicated buddy.
• Observation and shadowing of experienced clinicians before taking sessions independently.
• Weekly supervision with a seasoned clinician.
• Stepped support as you take on your own caseload.
• Built-in learning and development time during the week.
• Ongoing guidance from the multidisciplinary team and team leader.

Role responsibilities

As a Graduate Occupational Therapist, you will work with a paediatric caseload and provide therapy that is grounded in evidence and tailored to each child’s needs.

• Carry out evidence-based assessments and therapy sessions for children.
• Deliver direct support in family settings and community environments for children with developmental delays and/or disabilities.
• Work alongside a multidisciplinary team to provide coordinated, goal-oriented care.
• Partner with families and key stakeholders to offer education, support, and advocacy.
• Review your clinical approach regularly and make improvements to ensure best-practice service delivery.

Support, growth, and rewards

The program is designed to give you strong professional backing, help you build capability, and support your wellbeing as you develop your career.

• A dedicated buddy to help you settle in.
• One-on-one supervision with an experienced clinician.
• Discipline-based and peer support sessions.
• Administrative support so you can spend more time learning and delivering therapy.
• CPD allowance plus paid professional development leave.
• Structured training in both clinical and interpersonal skills.
• A clear career pathway from graduate level to independent clinician and beyond.
• Access to local and international career opportunities through the APM Group.
• Up to 12 weeks of annual leave.
• Flexible work options as your career progresses.
• Wellbeing support for you and your family.
• Competitive graduate salary with a bonus program.
• Contribution toward registration and professional memberships.
• Relocation reimbursement of up to $5,000 where applicable.

Candidate profile

They are looking for an Occupational Therapist who is enthusiastic, creative, and empathetic, with a genuine interest in making therapy engaging and meaningful for children.

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Occupational Therapy.
• Current AHPRA registration.
• Passion for delivering therapy in a way that is enjoyable, practical, and meaningful.
• Experience working with children and/or people with disabilities.
• Current compliance checks, or a willingness to obtain them.

About the organisation

Early Start Australia is a team of allied health professionals supporting children and young people to achieve their potential. Their multidisciplinary teams work closely with families to provide personalised, evidence-based therapy across communication, motor, cognitive, and social development. The organisation is a registered NDIS provider and offers services through different funding models. As part of the APM Group, it combines the scale and stability of a global organisation with the care and connection of local teams.

Diversity and inclusion

Early Start Australia values respect, equity, and diversity. Applications are strongly encouraged from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, and people with disabilities.