May Interest Groups for your calendar

In May we have a wide range of interest groups and topics for you to choose from. We’d love to see you there! Interest groups bring together OTs focused on different areas of practice to discuss relevant topics and new developments. The meetings offer peer and expert support, networking and learning opportunities.

AI and OT: Myth or Fact?

With so much confusion around artificial intelligence and occupational therapy, we’ve done some fact finding and myth busting to bring you up to speed quickly.

Share your story in Connections Magazine!

We are calling for articles for the Winter 2025 issue of Connections that showcase our members’ expertise and important developments in occupational therapy. Connections is our print and digital quarterly magazine, and is a unique opportunity for members to connect and communicate with peers in our passionate OTA community.

Supporting the sexual wellbeing of people with mental health conditions

This study aims to explore the perspectives of occupational therapists worldwide on their role in supporting the sexual wellbeing of people with MH conditions.

NDIS & Disability update: How we're advocating for our members

The upcoming Federal election and ongoing reforms to the NDIS has led to several opportunities to advocate on behalf of the occupational therapy profession. OTA has met with Minister of Social Services, the Hon. Amanda Rishworth’s office to advance our calls to action ahead of the Federal election and provided feedback to the NDIA on its approach to developing support needs assessments. Read about how we’ve been collaborating.

Tasmania welcomes its first occupational therapy course as national shortage intensifies

In a major milestone for Tasmania’s healthcare and education sectors, the University of Tasmania (UTAS) will welcome its first-ever cohort of occupational therapy (OT) students in July 2025, finally offering local students the opportunity to train, live and work in their home state.

Workforce Development Project Findings Webinar

OTA held a Member Update on the 21st May 2024, providing an overview of the project findings of the Workforce Development Project. The session was presented by Sarah Jones, Professional Practice Advisor. The workforce development plan was established using an evidence-based approach, drawing from multiple data sources and processes. This included an examination of occupational therapy workforce data, an examination of the national and international literature related to the occupational therapy workforce, an online national survey of registered occupational therapists and consultations with occupational therapists and key stakeholders. More information about the Workforce Development Project is available here.

Final Review of National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement

OTA made a submission to the Productivity Commission’s Final Review of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement, which is due to expire in June 2026.

Capability Framework for Occupational Therapists Working with Environmental Modifications

This draft Capability Framework outlines the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for occupational therapists working with Environmental Modifications across various career stages and across all relevant Australian service settings.

Capability Framework for Occupational Therapists Working with Assistive Technology

This draft Capability Framework outlines the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for occupational therapists working with Assistive Technology (AT) across various career stages and across all relevant Australian service settings.

Federal Election Marginal Seats

With the Federal Election now underway, this is a critical opportunity to ensure occupational therapy is prioritised by candidates and political parties

Federal Election Marginal Seats

With the Federal Election now underway, this is a critical opportunity to ensure occupational therapy is prioritised by candidates and political parties

April Interest Groups you can't resist!

Did you know that OTA hosts specialised interest groups each month as one of your benefits of being a member? In April we have a wide range of interest groups and topics for you to choose from.

Clinical Researcher Award

This award is one category of OTA's Research Awards, which acknowledge a member’s contribution towards the advancement of the research base of occupational therapy in four categories: early career researcher, mid career researcher, clinical researcher, and research team.

OTA Post-Budget Analysis 2025-26

Read the analysis of the Budget that is relevant to Occupational Therapy. Read OTA’s media release. As anticipated, this was a shorter, more targeted budget. Just three weeks ago the Government had been expected to announce an election and forego a Federal Budget until after the next election.

OT School of Victoria Clinical Award

In 2019, trustees of the OT Trust Fund donated funds to OTA, which established the Occupational Therapy School of Victoria Clinical Award. The award aims to promote advancement in clinical practice by supporting members of OTA to engage in clinical-based projects or studies.

Karen Jacobs Tour 2025

Join Dr. Karen Jacobs for a two-day workshop that will bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI technology and practical clinical applications in occupational therapy.

Connections Winter 2022

Read Connections Winter 2022 edition here.

2025-26 Federal Pre-Budget Submission

The 2025-26 Federal Budget presents a real opportunity for the Australian Government to commit to investing in the allied health workforce, improving the overall health system in particular critical sectors like disability, primary care, mental health and aged care. This commitment would enhance access to essential services and support the development of a more robust and sustainable healthcare infrastructure for all Australians.

Working with Interpreters: A Guide for Occupational Therapists

Occupational Therapists should engage credentialed interpreters to communicate complex or technical information to clients with limited or no English language proficiency.

Sustainability Checklist for Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists can be agents of change in reshaping the interactions between people, their occupations, and environments.

Education Programs Pending WFOT Approval

See the list of education programs pending WFOT approval.

Practice Support

Your practice doesn't stop at your clients. Our practice support is designed to help you with your day-to-day whether you're just starting out, an experienced practitioner or managing a business - OTA practice support has been designed to support you.

Insurance Partner

Aon is the preferred insurance broker to Occupational Therapy Australia. Aon have worked with us and insurers to create insurance cover tailored for the risks commonly found in occupational therapy.

OTA 2025 Federal Election Toolkit

OTA’s Federal Election Advocacy Toolkit provides everything you need to engage with local candidates and highlight our profession’s priorities for the 2025 Australian Federal Election.

2025 Tina Champagne Webinars

After a sell-out national tour in June 2024, Occupational Therapy Australia is delighted to announce that world-renowned occupational therapist, Dr. Tina Champagne will be bringing back her expertise in Sensory Modulation, this time in the format of 7 live, 1-hour Webinars based on her Sensory Modulation Program.

Workshops & Webinars

We offer a variety of occupational therapy workshops and webinars designed to elevate your practice while contributing to your annual CPD. Browse our full range of Hot Topic interactive workshops, Practice Spotlight webinars, and more CPD suited to your area of practice, interest, and experience.

Courses, Learning Modules & Programs

We offer a variety of on-demand, self-directed learning and development, covering a broad range of practice areas and topics.

OT Notification Navigator Service

Full-Time, Part-Time and New Graduate members who receive a notification from industry regulators can utilise this service to access guidance from a qualified Occupational Therapist about how to navigate the notification process.

History

Occupational Therapy Australia was formed in 2009 after national members voted to consolidate all divisions within the Australian Association of Occupational Therapists (AAOT) to form Occupational Therapy Australia Limited.