Michelle Oliver Appointed as OTA's First Chief Occupational Therapist

We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking moment for occupational therapy in Australia! For the first time, Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) has appointed a Chief Occupational Therapist (OT), and we couldn’t be more excited to share that Michelle Oliver will step into this pivotal new role.

"I am honoured and excited to be appointed the inaugural Chief Occupational Therapist for our association. I am looking forward to engaging with members on key issues and opportunities facing our profession. I welcome the opportunity to work with Samantha Hunter, the OTA executive team and membership to achieve OTA’s purpose of protecting and progressing occupational therapy in Australia."

Michelle Oliver, Chief Occupational Therapist, Occupational Therapy Australia

This is a historic move for the association and the profession, Michelle's appointment is set to elevate the association to new heights and places our profession right at the heart of major national discussions around healthcare policy and advocacy.

Michelle has spent her career championing the role of occupational therapists. From commencing her time at OTA as Divisional Manager, South Australia to Lead Mental Health Advisor to Acting General Manager of Occupational Therapy Michelle has always deeply listened, understood and responded to members and strongly advocated on their behalf. She brings a breadth and depth of leadership and clinical experience, and we look forward to her bringing the clinical lens to our advocacy efforts, whilst ensuring the professions learning and development needs are continually stretched and met.

So, what does this mean for you, as an OT?

• Greater Influence – With Michelle leading the charge, OTA is now positioned for greater influence in policy-making, working with the government, AHPRA, and key stakeholders to shape the future of our profession.
• Stronger Advocacy – Your voice, your work, and your priorities as an OT will be at the forefront of OTA's advocacy efforts. Michelle’s leadership ensures that clinical issues take centre stage in our conversations with decision-makers.
• Unmatched Representation – This role is the first of its kind in Australian allied health, which means occupational therapy will have unprecedented visibility and influence within the healthcare landscape.

"Michelle’s appointment signals a massive leap forward for our profession. With her leading our practice and advocacy teams, we’ll see a stronger focus on clinical priorities, workforce development, and evidence-based practice in everything we do. It’s monumental for everyone who works in OT, and the clients they serve."

Samantha Hunter, CEO, Occupational Therapy Australia

Michelle’s expertise and passion for OT will directly benefit you and the communities we serve. Whether it's advocating for better resources, influencing workforce policies, or ensuring occupational therapy is a key part of healthcare reform, Michelle is here to champion the profession we love.

So get ready – with Michelle Oliver as Chief OT, we're entering an exciting new chapter for occupational therapy in Australia. Together, we’ll continue to elevate the incredible work OTs do every day and make sure our profession is recognised for the essential contributions we make to the health and well-being of Australians.

This is our time – let’s celebrate this exciting moment for Occupational Therapy and get ready for even greater things ahead! Happy OT Week!