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How to Become a Music Therapist: Australian Careers in Allied Health

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What is a Music Therapist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Music Therapist?

A Music Therapist uses music as a clinical tool to help people heal. They work with clients of all ages, including those with mental health issues, developmental disorders, and physical disabilities. Settings include hospitals, schools, aged care facilities, and private practice.

Each therapist assesses client needs and builds a personalised treatment plan. Sessions may include singing, songwriting, and improvisation. These activities help clients express themselves and work towards their health goals.

Music Therapists track client progress and adjust their approach over time. They work closely with doctors, teachers, and families to provide complete care. Clear records and reports are a key part of the role.

For those who love music and want to help others, this is a deeply fulfilling career. Music Therapists play a vital part in supporting mental health and well-being across the community.

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Career snapshots For Music Therapists

The music therapy field in Australia is small but growing. Jobs and Skills Australia (2021 Census data) counts about 414 music therapists working nationally. Most are women (71%), and 61% are aged between 25 and 44. Only 28% work full-time. Part-time and flexible work is common in this field.

Average annual salaries range from $95,000 to $100,000 (SEEK, June 2026). Music Therapists work in hospitals, schools, aged care, disability services, and private practice. Growing use of music therapy in mental health and NDIS-funded care is creating new roles for qualified therapists.

What will I do?

Music Therapists use music as a health tool to help clients reach their goals. They plan and lead sessions for individuals and groups. Settings include hospitals, schools, aged care homes, and private practice. Their work blends creativity with solid research.

  • Assessing clients – Meeting with clients to understand their needs, goals, and current challenges.
  • Developing treatment plans – Creating personal music therapy plans that target each client’s health goals.
  • Running therapy sessions – Leading individual or group sessions using singing, songwriting, improvisation, and music listening.
  • Monitoring progress – Tracking each client’s response to therapy and updating plans as needed.
  • Working with other professionals – Teaming up with doctors, teachers, and families to support each client’s overall care.
  • Writing reports – Recording session outcomes and client progress for health records and referrals.
  • Professional development – Taking part in training and workshops to keep skills and knowledge current.

What skills do I need?

Music Therapists need strong musical skills and solid clinical knowledge. They must be able to play or sing and read music fluently. They also need to adapt their approach to suit each client’s unique needs.

Strong communication is vital. Music Therapists listen closely, build trust, and work well in teams. Empathy and patience are essential, especially when supporting vulnerable people. Registration with the Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA) requires ongoing professional development to keep skills sharp.

Skills/attributes

  • Musical proficiency (voice and/or instruments)
  • Clinical assessment and treatment planning
  • Empathy and active listening
  • Clear communication, verbal and written
  • Improvisation and creative thinking
  • Knowledge of psychology and health conditions
  • Report writing and clinical documentation
  • Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams
  • Patience and resilience
  • Commitment to continuing professional development (CPD)

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.