Hey guys,
I'm a Occupational Therapist currently based in the UK, but considering moving to Australia. I would like to experience working in a different health care system and now feels like a good time in the life to look at traveling.
I have started to look into the visa process, job market and transferring my profession qualification, however the further I go, the more confused I get.
I understand that I will need visa, but cannot figure out what steps I need to take to get my qualification acknowledge and at what stage I need to applying for Visas and jobs.
If any one can shed any light on what step I need to be taking and the order in which to do them, this it would be most appreciated.
Hi @Bronwen! The Hub shared this Forum post across its social media network and followers have shared some very helpful comments and suggestions. I've posted some of the thoughts to-date below: Facebook
• Heather: "This may be a good starting point: https://www.otaus.com.au/practice-support/working-in-australia" • Ruth: "I did the move almost 5 years ago. Have a read through this it tells you everything you need to know: www.otcouncil.com.au/wp-content/uploads/OQAC-POLICY-AND-PROCEDURE-Stage-1-December-2018.pdf. There are two stages. The first involves getting your qualifications verified with the OTC, the second is getting a job and undertaking supervised practice. This can be tricky as it involves getting a job before you are registered with AHPRA. Good luck." • Sally: "You need to start the process for AHPRA registration. Some companies may offer to supervise your practice whilst getting your registration, however this will probably mean working in regional areas at first. You would also need to have a visa. I moved here 8 years ago and already had a job when AHPRA became national so was able to be sponsored by my employer. Good luck with everything it’s a great place to live and work." Twitter • OTSheffield: "Hi, I went to New Zealand for one year to work. This was a loooong time ago (2004). People always said it was trickier to work in OZ then NZ. Anyway, things may have changed. There is a lot of prep involved. Good luck, you'll have a blast!"
LinkedIn • Isobel: "All the registration options are here: www.occupationaltherapyboard.gov.au/registration/forms.aspx"
Hi Bronwen, I am an OT who moved to Aus in 2016. I am happy to catch up and answer any questions you have.
Hi @Bronwen Pope-Wilby! Welcome to the Hub - and thanks for posting your query in the Forum. Are you happy for us to share this post across our social media networks, to bring it to the attention of Members? This should get you faster advice here. The Occupational Therapy Hub Team hubteam@theOThub.com