Occupational Therapist - Level 1/2

Make a Meaningful Difference in Acute Mental Health Care on the Mid North Coast

Remuneration: $76,364 - $108,943 per annum + superannuation + salary packaging
Location: Manning Hospital
Employment Type: Permanent Full Time
Position Classification: Occupational Therapist Level 1/2
Requisition ID: REQ659593
Applications Close: Sunday 31st May 2026

About the role

An exciting opportunity is available for an Occupational Therapist to join the Mental Health Inpatient Unit at Manning Base Hospital, where you’ll play a key role in supporting people experiencing acute mental health challenges within a collaborative inpatient setting.

Working as part of a dedicated multidisciplinary team, you will deliver high-quality, patient-centred care and contribute to recovery-focused treatment planning for consumers with complex mental health needs. In this rewarding role, you will:
 

• Complete Occupational Therapy assessments and interventions within an acute inpatient environment
• Work closely with NDIS providers, community agencies, and local support services to ensure safe, holistic, and coordinated care
• Lead and deliver engaging therapeutic ward programs that support patient recovery and wellbeing
• Collaborate closely with nursing, medical, allied health, and support staff to achieve the best outcomes for patients
• Partner with an Occupational Therapy Assistant to deliver effective and meaningful care initiatives

You’ll report directly to the Nurse Unit Manager and be supported by an experienced leadership team committed to your professional growth and success.

Supportive Team Environment

From day one, you’ll receive a comprehensive onboarding program designed to set you up for success in the role. You’ll have access to ongoing support from senior clinicians, Nurse Managers, and the Occupational Therapy Head of Discipline, with opportunities for:
 

• Clinical supervision and mentoring
• Ongoing professional development and training
• Collaborative multidisciplinary practice
• Career progression within a supportive health service

Where you’ll be working

Based in beautiful Taree on the stunning Mid North Coast, Manning Mental Health Inpatient Unit provides specialist inpatient mental health care in a compassionate, recovery-oriented environment.

This is your chance to enjoy the perfect balance of meaningful work and lifestyle. Experience the benefits of regional living with affordable housing, a welcoming community, and easy access to beaches, rivers, national parks, and coastal escapes - all while building your career within a highly supportive and values-driven team.

Requirements:
 

• Occupational Therapist with current Authority to Practice with AHPRA

What we offer

At Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD), enjoy a career where you're challenged by interesting work and surrounded by spectacular locations. Join the team enriching health in millions of ways every day:

• Sustainable Healthcare: Together towards zero
• Proximity to shopping and other services
• ADO's each month (for full time employees)
• Salary packaging options
• Fitness Passport
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and family members
• Opportunity to work and collaborate with a range of non-clinical and clinical professionals

Additional Information:
 

• To be eligible for permanent employment in this position you must be an Australian Citizen, or a permanent resident of Australia, or a New Zealand citizen with a current New Zealand Passport. Employment of a temporary visa holder may only occur if no suitable local candidate is identified for the position; in this instance, you may only be offered employment in line with the conditions and expiry date of your visa.

• An eligibility list will be created for future permanent full or part time and temporary full or part time vacancies. 

• We are unable to accommodate visa sponsorship for applicants requiring a visa for this position.   

How to apply:

Click apply online, submit your information and resume, and address the criteria listed below providing examples that demonstrate your ability.
 

1. Familiar with the use and interpretation of functional and psychosocial assessments relevant to a mental health setting.

2. Experience in program design and the development, facilitation and evaluation of group interventions based on consumer need.

Need more information? 

  1) Click here for the Position Description 
  2) Find out more about applying for this position

For role related queries or questions contact Crystal Jarrett on Crystal.Jarrett@health.nsw.gov.au