Where regional Queensland OT roles are
Regional Queensland is enormous, spanning the Sunshine Coast, Wide Bay, Central Queensland, Mackay, Townsville, Cairns, and the far north. Roles can be based in a regional hospital, a community health service, a school, or an NDIS provider, and many cover a large catchment with a mix of clinic and outreach work.
Queensland Health hospital and health services are major employers, but not-for-profits and private practices also hire across the regions. Remote and rural placements may include travel to Indigenous communities, so cultural safety and flexibility are important parts of the role.
Who hires OTs in regional Queensland
Hospital and health services, community organisations, NDIS providers, aged care groups, and private clinics all recruit OTs outside Brisbane. Some regional services offer rotational positions or structured graduate programs, while smaller providers may hire directly for a specific caseload or program.
Many Queensland regional roles include relocation assistance or accommodation support, particularly in rural and remote areas. Ask whether the package covers travel, removal costs, and short-term housing, and whether there is a minimum service period attached to the incentive.
Regional QLD pay and conditions
Regional Queensland salaries are broadly comparable to Brisbane, typically $80,000 to $115,000 depending on experience, with additional incentives for rural and remote roles. The cost of living varies significantly between coastal cities and remote towns, so check housing and travel costs before comparing offers.
Ask about vehicle arrangements, travel time, and clinical supervision when the nearest senior OT is hours away. Public health roles often include salary packaging and structured professional development, while private providers may offer higher base pay or flexible hours.
Living and working in regional Queensland
The Sunshine Coast and Cairns offer coastal lifestyles and growing health services, while Central Queensland and the far north offer more remote and generalist work. Weather, distance, and access to specialist services are practical considerations, especially if you have family or relocation needs.
Browse current regional QLD vacancies below, or set an alert for the regions you are considering. Brisbane and Gold Coast roles are listed on their own pages.