If you’ve been hurt at work in NSW, you might already know about doctors, physios, or case managers. But there’s another important person who could play a big part in your recovery — an occupational therapist (OT).
You don’t need to be in hospital or seriously disabled to get help from an OT. In fact, many injured workers are referred to one as part of their recovery plan under the NSW Workers Compensation Scheme.
In this article, we’ll explain who occupational therapists are, what they do, and how they can help you get back on track — whether it’s with work, home life, or everyday tasks.
What is an Occupational Therapist?
An occupational therapist (OT) is a healthcare professional who helps people do the things they need and want to do in daily life — like working, cooking, cleaning, or looking after themselves — even after an injury or illness.
In the workers compensation system, their job is to help injured workers:
- Safely return to work
- Manage tasks at home
- Stay independent
- Access equipment or support services
They focus on function — not just your injury, but how it affects your ability to live and work.
When Might You See an OT After a Work Injury?
You might be referred to an OT if:
- You’re having trouble doing your job
- You can’t manage household tasks like cleaning or shopping
- You need equipment or home changes to stay safe
- Your doctor, insurer, or rehab provider thinks you need help getting back to work
- You need a detailed report about what you can or can’t do physically
- You are having trouble navigating too many medical appointments
- Your treatment team is disconnected or not working well together
The insurer might recommend an OT get involved in your claim, but your GP can also give you a referral if he or she thinks it appropriate.
An OT visit is usually approved by your workers compensation insurer. If it’s been recommended and you haven’t heard from your insurer, first follow up the insurer, then speak to your doctor, a workers compensation lawyer or lodge a complaint with IRO.
If you’re not sure who IRO are, see:
👉 How Can IRO Help Me?
What Do Occupational Therapists Do for Injured Workers?
Here’s how OTs can support you during your recovery:
-
Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs)
This is a detailed assessment of what you can and can’t do physically. It includes tasks like lifting, walking, sitting, bending, and using your hands.
Why it matters:
- Helps work out if you’re ready to go back to work (and in what capacity)
- Can support claims for permanent impairment or workplace modifications
- Gives clear evidence to the insurer and your employer
👉 Learn more: FAQs: Functional Capacity & Vocational Assessments
-
Return to Work Support
OTs can visit your workplace to check if it’s safe for you to return. They’ll:
- Assess your duties
- Suggest changes or lighter tasks
- Work with your employer and doctor on a safe return-to-work plan
They make sure you’re not going back too early or doing something that might make your injury worse.
-
Help at Home
If you’re struggling with things like cooking, cleaning, laundry, or even getting around your home, an OT can assess your situation.
They can recommend:
- Domestic assistance (paid support for tasks you can’t do)
- Equipment like grab rails or special chairs
- Changes to your home to help with mobility or safety
If you want to know more about getting help at home after an injury, read:
👉 How to Claim Domestic Assistance for a Work Injury
-
Equipment and Aids
An OT can also organise things like:
- Ergonomic chairs or desks
- Braces or supports
- Modified tools or footwear
- Wheelchairs or walking aids
- Vehicle or home modifications
This equipment can help you return to work sooner or make everyday life easier.
-
Support for Long-Term Injuries
If you have a serious or permanent injury, an OT can assess what ongoing support you need. That might include:
- Help with personal care
- Ongoing home assistance
- Supported accommodation
- Changes to your job or retraining
They’ll provide reports to your insurer to help you access long-term benefits and services.
Why Occupational Therapists Are Important
OTs help connect the dots between your injury, your job, and your everyday life.
Here’s why their role is so valuable:
✅ They make sure you don’t go back to work too soon
✅ They help you stay safe and independent at home
✅ They give your insurer the info needed to approve support
✅ They make recovery more practical — not just medical
In short, they help you get your life back.
What Should You Do if You Think You Need an OT?
If you’re struggling with work or daily tasks, talk to:
- Your GP or treating doctor
- Your case manager
- Your rehab provider
You can also speak to a workers compensation lawyer if you’re unsure what help you’re entitled to or if your insurer is delaying approvals.
Need Help? Bourke Legal Can Support You
If your insurer is refusing to fund an OT assessment, or you’ve been denied support after your injury, we can help you:
- Get the assessments you need
- Challenge unfair decisions
- Access domestic assistance or workplace modifications
- Understand your legal rights every step of the way
📞 Contact Bourke Legal today:
- Phone: 1300 026 875
- Email: reception@bourkelegal.com
- Website: www.bourkelegal.com
We’ll help you take the pressure off — so you can focus on recovery.