In this course, you will develop the leadership, advocacy and professional capabilities needed to influence positive change and advance participation and inclusion in contemporary and emerging areas of occupational therapy practice. You will explore how occupational therapists contribute to equity, cultural safety and participation at individual, organisational and system levels, including advocacy that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and community-led priorities and promotes the participation rights of diverse and marginalised communities. 

You will examine how power, identity, ethics and collaboration shape professional influence, and learn strategies for engaging effectively with stakeholders, funders, policymakers and communities. Through analysis of workforce trends, funding models, digital innovation and service design, you will examine how occupational therapists can influence the future direction of the profession and lead innovation in evolving health, disability and community contexts. 

Interactive learning, case studies and critical reflection will support you to lead ethically, advocate with cultural humility and respond constructively to emerging challenges. You will articulate your professional identity and develop confidence to contribute to service improvement, inclusive practice and sustainable workforce development. 

This course also supports your transition to professional practice by strengthening career-readiness skills such as professional communication, digital presence, continuing professional development planning and reflective supervision. By the end of the course, you will be prepared to enter the profession as a thoughtful, future-focused who can advocate for participation, influence systems and contribute to positive change in contemporary practice environments.