Policy and Advocacy update – 24 September 2026

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including an update on SA mental health clinician recognition, the Thriving Kids roll-out date, and many more.

OT Mental Health Forum 2026 - Thank You

See you at the OT Mental Health Forum 2026 in Canberra!

Connections Spring 2026

The Spring issue of Connections is now available for OTA members. This issue explores what it takes to thrive as an OT in an evolving profession, with fresh thinking on practice, wellbeing, innovation and the issues shaping occupational therapy today.

Research Survey: The role of OT in pelvic exenteration

This study will focus on gathering qualitative information through semi-structured interviews with OTs who have experience working with adults who have had PE.

It’s time to talk about occupational therapy and dementia

Dementia Action Week (21–27 September) is an opportunity to raise awareness of dementia and highlight the vital role of occupational therapists in supporting everyday participation and independence.

NDIS reforms submission guidelines

A practical guide to help occupational therapists understand the NDIS reforms and make informed submissions, highlighting the potential impacts on OT practice, participants and access to essential services.

Don’t just count your CPD hours. Make them count.

Check your CPD progress and plan ahead before the 30 November Ahpra registration deadline.

Policy and Advocacy update – 3 September 2026

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including the NDIS survey extension, updates to the Inclusive Communities Fund, and many more.

Research Survey: Occupational Therapists' experiences assessing digital wellbeing

To understand occupational therapists’ experiences assessing children’s digital wellbeing.

Challenge your thinking and strengthen your practice with two major OT learning events this spring

Take your OT practice further this October & November with OT Mental Health Forum and CPD Empower Adelaide. Read more.

Guide to making a submission to the DVA Annual Report inquiry

OTA is preparing a submission to the inquiry into the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) 2024–25 Annual Report.

Policy and Advocacy update – 20 August 2026

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including the date the NDIS survey closes, the aged care assessments, and many more.

Generative AI in OT practice Interest Group

This Interest Group is open to all OTA members working in or with an interest in the area of Generative AI.

Mastering generative AI: Advanced tools & techniques for OTs

This advanced workshop is for OTs who are already confident with the basics of generative AI and are ready to explore more sophisticated tools and real-world applications to support and streamline their work.

Getting started with generative AI: A beginner’s guide for OTs

A practical, beginner-friendly workshop designed to help occupational therapists confidently get started with generative AI and apply it safely and effectively in everyday practice.

OTA Submission: Psychosocial supports advice and actions for Government

OTA established an Expert Advisory Group for Psychosocial Foundational Supports (EAG), comprising twenty highly experienced occupational therapists working across a range of public, non-government and private psychosocial services.

Short Course: Safe and effective AI use in OT practice

This short 15-minute course expands on Safe AI use in OT practice. It covers the types of AI being used in OT practice, how to implement AI use, regulation of AI tools, and how to ensure you are meeting your professional obligations.

Digital Health Hub

Digital health is now a core part of how care is delivered across Australia and an increasingly important part of occupational therapy practice.

OTA Submission: NSW Workers Compensation Reform regulations and guidelines

OTA have made a submission to SIRA (State Insurance Regulatory Authority) in NSW around the state's Workers Compensation reforms, focused on the strong role occupational therapists play in psychosocial recovery, vocational rehabilitation, and return-to-work planning.

OTA Submission: IHACPA for the pricing framework for support at home Aged Care services

OTA recommend pricing for Support at Home should align to evidence-based business overheads that Occupational Therapists must factor into their operating budgets.

NDIS Amendment Bill 2026 - OTA Submission

OTA welcomes the opportunity to provide feedback on the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026.

Guide to making a submission on the NDIS Future Generations Bill

The Australian Parliament is considering the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026.

No OTs, No NDIS 

No OTs, No NDIS is a OTA campaign responding to NDIS reforms that are limiting access to essential occupational therapy supports and impacting participants, families and communities.

OTA Policy Submissions

OTA’s submissions represent the collective expertise, experience, and perspectives of occupational therapists across Australia, with the goal of advancing the profession across the diverse sectors in which OTs work.

About OTA’s CPD & Events

Learn from leading clinicians and academics while earning CPD hours to meet Ahpra requirements. Every completed activity is automatically recorded in your OTA CPD Tracker, with certificates included.

OTA Leadership Program 2026

Step into your next chapter as a leader. Join OTA’s 2026 Leadership Program with Donna Markham OAM to grow your confidence, clarity and influence.

OTA Annual General Meetings

Occupational Therapy Australia will hold its next Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the 2025/26 year on Tuesday 17 November 2026.

NDIS - Learning Hub

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

Environmental Modifications & Assistive Technology - Learning Hub

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

Adult Health and Disability - Learning Hub

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