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How to Become a Diversional Therapist: Australian

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What is a Diversional Therapist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

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What is a Diversional Therapist?

A Diversional Therapist plans and runs leisure programs to boost the health and wellbeing of their clients. They work in aged care and health settings, building activities that fit each person’s interests and needs. Their goal is to support body, mind, and social health through fun and useful activities.

Day-to-day, therapists check client needs and plan tailored activity sessions. They run a wide range of programs, from arts and crafts to outdoor events and gentle exercise. They also keep full records of each client’s progress and update programs as needed.

This role means working with other health staff and managing support workers. Good talking and writing skills are key, along with a real desire to help others thrive. The work can be creative and deeply rewarding.

Most people enter the field through a Certificate IV in Leisure and Health (CHC43415). Higher-level roles may call for an approved bachelor’s degree. The average yearly salary is around $75,000 per year (Jobs and Skills Australia, May 2025). Job demand is rated Strong by the Australian government.

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Career snapshots For Diversional Therapists

Around 6,700 people work as Diversional Therapists in Australia, mostly in Health Care and Social Assistance (Your Career, 2025). About 60% work full-time, at an average of 40 hours per week. Median full-time weekly pay is $1,434, or around $75,000 per year (Jobs and Skills Australia, May 2025).

The workforce is mostly female (94%) with a median age of 52 (Your Career, 2025). Future demand is rated Strong by the Australian government. New South Wales employs the most, at 38% of all Diversional Therapists. Victoria (22%) and Queensland (19%) are the next largest (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025).

What will I do?

Diversional Therapists improve quality of life through tailored leisure and recreation programs. They work mainly in aged care and healthcare settings. Creative, structured activities support physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Each program is built around the interests and needs of the client.

  • Planning and running leisure activity programs. Therapists design activities matched to each client’s interests and abilities.
  • Assessing client interests, needs, and strengths. They review capabilities to build personalised plans that promote engagement.
  • Assisting with hiring, training, and supervision of staff. Therapists recruit and coach team members to deliver programs well.
  • Keeping records of activity programs and community resources. Detailed notes help with planning and reporting.
  • Encouraging clients to take part in activities. Therapists motivate clients to join programs suited to their interests.
  • Sharing information on available activities and programs. They keep clients and families informed so people can choose what suits them.

What skills do I need?

A Diversional Therapist needs good people skills and practical health knowledge. Strong talking and writing skills are key, as therapists must connect with clients and know what they enjoy and need. Creative thinking helps when building varied programs that keep clients active and engaged.

Good planning skills are vital for setting schedules, keeping records, and managing programs across a team. Therapists must review client progress and adapt their work based on results. Basic digital skills for records and reports are also useful in today’s health settings.

Skills/attributes

  • Clear verbal and written communication
  • Empathy and compassion
  • Organisational and time management skills
  • Creativity in designing and adapting activities
  • Ability to work as part of a healthcare team
  • Problem-solving and flexibility
  • Knowledge of health and wellbeing principles
  • Record keeping and documentation
  • Understanding of individual client needs and preferences
  • Ability to assess and adapt programs
  • Leadership and supervision of support staff
  • First Aid certification
  • Knowledge of evidence-based practice
  • Digital literacy for scheduling and reporting

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