Policy and Advocacy update – 22 January 2026

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including a near-closing consultation to help shape fairer NDIS pricing, and an OTA call to support the Thriving Kids.

Spotlight on Aged Care: How we're advocating for our members

OTA has raised concerns about the new arrangements for funding for Assistive Technology and Home Modifications when Support at Home commences 1 July 2025, and in particular the lifetime cap of $15,000 for Home Modifications in submissions to the Aged Care Rules.

Aged Care Media Release—Fed Election 2025

Experts warn that new funding reforms, set to take effect on July 1, may place many older Australians at increased risk of hospitalisation, early entry into residential care, and even death.

Connections Autumn 2025

Ready, set, refresh! We’re excited to share the new-look Autumn Connections. Our quarterly Magazine keeps you up to date with important and inspiring developments across the changing OT landscape. In this bumper issue you’ll see OTA's bold rebrand come to life, learn about key initiatives in the lead up to the May 2025 Federal Election, and more!

The Federal Election has been called: Advocate for OTs now!

The Federal Election has been called for 3 May 2025. Now is the time to advocate for the OT profession. OTA's toolkit will empower you to advocate. The profession is stronger together.

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

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.

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.

OTA's 2025 Federal Election Statement

The 2025 Federal Election is a critical opportunity to invest in the allied health workforce and strengthen healthcare services. This Statement outlines 27 strategic calls to action essential for addressing pressing issues. A detailed breakdown of each ask is available in OTA’s 2025 Federal Election Playbook.

CEO Member Update February 2025

OTA CEO Samantha Hunter shares the latest updates on the outlook for Federal Election, her recent round table discussion with Senator Jordan Steele-John and WA members, capability framework announcements, and the use of AI in practice and how this technology may support, challenge and redefine aspects of the profession.

Member Feedback: OTA Federal Election Forum

On Wednesday 30 October 2024, OTA held its Federal Election Forum. Members were provided with an overview of our proposed election strategy and provided feedback on OTA’s draft Federal Election Statement.

Occupational Therapy National Workforce Data Report (2023)

In 2023 OTA commissioned a significant workforce development project which aimed to formulate a workforce development plan in partnership with the occupational therapy profession. This report provides details of the data analysis that was provided to OTA. This analysis was prepared for the purpose of understanding the key trends across the Occupational Therapy (OT) workforce for the development of the Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) Workforce Plan.