Policy and Advocacy update – 21 May 2026

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including the updates about No OTs, No NDIS campaign, EOI for Thriving Kids and many more.

Policy and Advocacy update – 14 May 2026

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including the launch of No OTs, No NDIS campaign, released of Federal budget 2026-2027 and many more.

Thriving Kids Initiative - May 2026

This document is intended to be a live document that outlines OTA's policy positions and recommendations for Governments as the Thriving Kids Initiative is developed and rolled out.

NSW Thriving Kids EOI process: Momentum is building and we need to keep it going

The DCJ is exploring a procurement process for a private allied health practitioner panel, with further details expected in the second half of 2026.

Thriving Kids: Where things stand - Major NSW update and consultations in Tasmania and WA

Thriving Kids will roll out differently across jurisdictions, with major implications for OTs and the children and families they support, particularly through varying funding and commissioning models.

Policy and Advocacy update – 7 May 2026

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including the update on Federal budget, OTA role in mental health strategy, and many more.

May Interest Group highlights: Guest speakers and upcoming sessions

Mark your calendars! OTA’s May’s Interest Group sessions are here to inspire, energise and connect you with like-minded OTs across Australia.

Research Survey: Parents and Caregivers priorities for occupational therapy

The research explores perspectives on the priorities of caregivers and Occupational Therapists when working with a child and their families.

Stronger Together: United on the road ahead during disability reform

OTA has taken a measured approach, focusing on stakeholder engagement and behind-the-scenes policy influence.

Thriving Kids at Risk Without the Right Funding and Workforce Model

The interview highlighted the initiative’s potential while raising concerns about risks without proper funding and commissioning.

Policy and Advocacy update – 5 March 2026

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including concerns about the NDIS Rules, SA elections, and many more.

Psychosocial Practice v Mental Health OT

Learn more about the distinction between psychosocial practice and mental health occupational therapy.

OTA Submission - Thriving Kids Inquiry

OTA welcomes the opportunity to provide input to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Disability Inquiry into Thriving Kids (the Inquiry).

Paediatrics - Learning Hub

Explore our available events on Paediatrics, designed to expand your knowledge, build skills, and connect with peers through expert-led learning opportunities.

Poster - Understanding occupational therapy in education

Download the "Understanding occupational therapy in education" flyer.

Poster - An ABC of Occupational Therapy in Education

Download the "An ABC of Occupational Therapy in Education" poster.

Consultation on General Foundational Supports

OTA welcomed the Report of the Independent Review of the NDIS, and its recognition of the obvious need for more support services in Australian communities for those who cannot access the NDIS.

Consultation on Foundational Supports for children with developmental concern, delay and/or disability and their families, carers and kin

Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) welcomes the opportunity to provide a submission in relation to targeted foundational supports - Foundational Supports for children with developmental concern, delay and/or disability and their families, carers and kin.

Submission: Select Committee on Foundational and Disability Supports Available For Children and Young People In New South Wales

OTA welcomes the opportunity to provide input to the NSW Government’s approach to development of foundation supports for children and young people with disability, developmental delay or concerns.

Australian Occupational Therapy Journal (AOTJ)

The Australian Occupational Therapy Journal (AOTJ) is a leading international publication presenting influential and innovative scholarship and research relevant to occupational therapy. The journal is the official research publication of the peak membership body, Occupational Therapy Australia.

Capability Framework for occupational therapists working with children, young people and families

The Capability Framework for occupational therapists working with children, young people and families (paediatrics) proposes a set of key capabilities (knowledge, skills and attitudes) for occupational therapists working across a range of service settings. The framework recognises that paediatric practice is within the scope of all registered occupational therapists.

Capability Frameworks

Occupational Therapy Australia’s capability frameworks propose what best practice looks like in a particular area across the career pathway. Each framework outlines a set of capabilities that occupational therapists may use in their area of practice at the foundational, intermediate or senior practitioner level.