Policy and advocacy update - 19 September 2025

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including OTA priorities ahead of the South Australian election, support for new OT graduates, and many more.

OTA steps up national advocacy in Canberra and Sydney

Last week, OTA ramped up our national advocacy efforts, with our Chief Executive Officer and Head of Policy & Advocacy meeting federal politicians and sector representatives in Canberra and Sydney.

Policy and advocacy update 11 September 2025

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week.

Bridging the pelvic health gap for women in Australia

Connections Spring 2025 Article by: Hollie Swanton | Occupational Therapist Janelle Gullan | Occupational Therapist

Learning that sets the standard for OTs Working with Children, Young People & Families

Every occupational therapist deserves to feel confident in their practice – this is especially true for foundational practitioners, whether they are new to the profession, returning after a break from practice, or moving into a new area of practice.

MEDIA RELEASE: OTs on the brink as new data shows deep impact of NDIS cuts

NDIS price freezes have left hundreds of occupational therapy businesses on the brink of financial ruin, with thousands of NDIS clients at risk of being left without care.

OTA’s survey of OTs shows dire consequences of NDIS pricing decision

Data from OTA’s recent survey of 600 OTs across Australia paints a concerning picture for future access to OT services under the NDIS, following the NDIA’s devastating pricing decision.

Win for NDIS transparency in the Senate

Thanks to our members who took urgent action on Tuesday by calling their Senators to support a Greens’ motion to compel the government to release a report it received from the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority (IHACPA) titled *A fresh approach to NDIS pricing – Final report*.

Media Release: Support, choice vital for Thriving Kids

The Thriving Kids scheme will leave thousands of Australians with disability without the right support if the concerns of families and the sector are not heard, according to a key allied health peak body.

A grounded theory study: Mental health professionals’ perspectives on the involvement of police for people experiencing mental health issues

The research seeks to understand the experiences and decision-making related to mental health professionals’ involvement of police in adult community-based mental health settings.

FAQ: Environmental and Home Modifications

FAQs on home and environmental modifications.

Poster - Understanding occupational therapy in education

Download the "Understanding occupational therapy in education" flyer.

State and Territory Advisory Councils

State and Territory Advisory Councils are advisory councils of OTA members from across states and territories to bring voice to local and state-based issues affecting occupational therapists and communities. Advisory Councils provide pivotal intelligence to inform OTA of the opportunities, emerging issues, and changing landscape to enable OTA to be responsive to all of our members' needs, no matter where they reside.

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: Productivity Commission – Final Review of National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement

In this interim report, the Productivity Commission presents its initial findings and draft recommendations.

Submission: Productivity Commission Interim Report on Final Review of National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement

The Productivity Commission (PC) has been asked by the Australian Government to conduct the final review of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement.

Submission: Department of Social Services consultation on NDIS Supports rule

OTA's submission provides feedback on the overall approach outlined in the NDIS Supports Lists, and specific inclusions and omissions in specific lists, which is detailed in this content.

FAQ: OTA NDIS Pricing Campaign

This FAQ provides answers to common questions about OTA's NDIS Pricing Campaign, including key issues raised, advocacy efforts, and how occupational therapists can support fair and sustainable pricing under the NDIS.

NDIS Pricing Campaign

OTA needs your voice. The NDIA’s frozen pricing is unsustainable. We’re calling for fair funding now - before more OTs leave the workforce. Join the campaign.

OTA Submission to the Qld Mental Health Select Committee | Mental health outcomes for Queenslanders

OTA provided a submission to the Qld Mental Health Select Committee on their Inquiry into the opportunities to improve mental health outcomes for Queenslanders.

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.

Foundational Supports

OTA are working to support and advance the critical role that OTs will play in the design and delivery of foundational supports. As this reform process continues, we will provide updates on opportunities for consultation and advocacy. We will also offer guidance to support coordinated advocacy efforts across the sector and ensure our profession is well represented in these changes.

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Help for members Digital Transformation and OTA Connect

Help for members through OTAs Digital Transformation.

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.

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.

Early Career Support

OTA Mental Health Endorsement

The OTA Mental Health Endorsement program provides recognition of the additional knowledge, skills and experience of OTs focusing their scope of practice on mental health.

Team and Governance

OTA is led by a team of dedicated professionals who seek to protect and progress the profession.