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.

Breaking: Major government announcement on new children’s early intervention services

This week's major announcement from NDIS Minister Mark Butler at the National Press Club has provided a roadmap for the future of early intervention services for children with mild and moderate developmental delay and autism aged under 9.

FAQ: Environmental and Home Modifications

FAQs on home and environmental modifications.

Q & A with Kate Purslowe: Understanding the Aged Care Quality Standards updates

Occupational therapist Kate Purslowe has worked in the aged care sector since 2012, across residential aged care, transition care and the NDIS. She is currently the Allied Health Coordinator at Brightwater Group and a sessional academic at Curtin University. Kate brings a deep and practical understanding of the aged care system, service delivery, and is presenting at OTA's upcoming event CPD Empower Perth.

Poster - Understanding occupational therapy in education

Download the "Understanding occupational therapy in education" flyer.

Advocacy and policy update 14 August 2025

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including: clarity on charging for kilometers for NDIS travel; aged care indicative pricing; and the Senate Committee Inquiry on Aged Care Service Delivery.

Q & A with Catherine Daly: The parent-child connection in infant mental health

Catherine Daly is an Occupational Therapist and Child and Family Therapist who has worked extensively with infants, children and families requiring assessment and intervention for psychosocial, mental health and developmental difficulties. Catherine is a co-presenter with Chris Hodges at CPD Empower’s Brisbane Workshop 2025.

Nominations for Board Director and WFOT Delegate role

There are five nominees to fill three elected Board Director positions. Members will be asked to select their top three choices.

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.

Terms and Conditions

The information provided on this website is for use of a general nature only and is not intended to be relied upon as, nor to be a substitute for, specific professional advice. No responsibility for loss occasioned to any persons acting on or refraining from action as a result of any material on this website can be accepted. This includes links to all external organisations.

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.