Where regional Victorian OT roles are
Regional Victoria covers Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton, Wodonga, Gippsland, Mildura, Warrnambool, and the smaller towns in between. Many roles are based at a regional health service and cover a surrounding catchment, so a typical week can include hospital rehabilitation, community visits, and outreach to smaller sites.
The Victorian health system is organised into regional health services, community health, and rural city councils, alongside NDIS providers and aged care. Smaller teams mean broader caseloads and more autonomy, with specialist support often available through telehealth or metropolitan partners.
Who hires occupational therapists in regional Victoria
Regional health services, community health organisations, NDIS providers, aged care groups, and private practices all employ OTs. Some of the larger services run rotational programs or dedicated graduate positions, while rural councils and community organisations often hire for outreach and home-based work.
Victoria also has rural workforce programs that support relocation, professional development, and clinical supervision. Ask your prospective employer about these incentives, because they can make a regional move much more sustainable in the first year.
Regional VIC pay and conditions
Pay in regional Victoria is generally similar to Melbourne, typically $78,000 to $112,000 depending on experience, with some rural and remote incentives available. Lower housing costs outside the capital can stretch the same salary considerably, although travel and relocation costs need to be planned for.
Ask whether the role provides a vehicle, how travel time is paid, and what supervision arrangements exist when the nearest senior OT is in another town. Public health awards often include structured progression, salary packaging, and paid professional development.
Living and working regionally in Victoria
Regional Victoria offers shorter commutes, access to outdoor recreation, and strong community connections, but the right fit depends on the town. Ballarat and Bendigo are large regional cities with hospitals and services; smaller towns offer more generalist work and closer relationships with the community.
Browse current regional VIC vacancies below, or set an alert for the towns and settings you prefer. Melbourne and Geelong roles are listed on their own pages.