Exploring general practitioners' perspectives on Occupational Therapy in Mental Health Care

The aim of this research is to investigate general practitioners' perspectives on occupational therapy's role in mental health care, and the perspectives of occupational therapists providing services under the Better Access Mental Health Scheme (BAMHS).

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.

Board Director and WFOT Delegate Nominations Now Open

Board Nominations are now open until 5.00pm (AEST) Wednesday 30 July 2025.

The role of occupational therapists in mainstream secondary schools

The study is about exploring the roles of occupational therapists who are directly-employed (school-employed) within mainstream secondary schools.

OTA incorrect statement published in error

Earlier today an incorrect statement about the NDIS travel rate cut was posted in error on the OTA website.

Changes to allied health referrals under the Medicare CDM program

From 1 July 2025, there will be changes to the Medicare Chronic Disease Management Program that affect how allied health providers receive referrals

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.

Change to fitness to drive assessment requirements for ACT OTs

A new mandatory reporting requirement comes into force on 12 June 2025 for ACT health practitioners registered in the medical, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, optometry, and psychology professions.

Artistic expression for people with disability: AI to foster creativity

Among the most captivating and controversial technological advancements is the rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) image generation tools. These sophisticated algorithms, capable of transforming text-based prompts into intricate visual imagery, are not merely a novelty; they represent a profound shift in how art is conceived and created and pose some significant ethical issues.

Media Release: Minister responds to industry concerns by delaying Aged Care Act implementation

Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) acknowledges the announcement by the Hon. Sam Rae MP to defer the implementation of the new Aged Care Act to 1 November 2025.

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.

Delay to Aged Care Act will enable clarification and support transition

OTA welcomes the delay to the introduction of the new Aged Care Act until November as a response to the significant concerns raised by the sector. However, for the delay to be meaningful, the key issues raised by the sector need to be addressed.

Three key takeaways from the 2025 DSC NDIS Conference

OTA recently attended the 2025 DSC NDIS Conference in Melbourne on 20 and 21 May, which highlighted three critical challenges facing the disability sector: NDIS pricing issues, delays in foundational supports, and a growing lack of trust within the sector.

DVA Overview for Occupational Therapists

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) recognises that health care providers play a key role in providing treatment for DVA clients. Occupational therapists are essential allied health professionals who provide services to clients who hold DVA Veteran Cards.

FAQ: Driving

Frequently asked questions about becoming a qualified driving OT.

FAQ: Ahpra Registration Queries including Returning to Practice

See Frequently Asked Questions about Ahpra registration here.

Mental Health Occupational Therapy Resource Kit

The OTA Mental Health OT Resource Kit can be used by OTA members to advocate, raise awareness and support understanding of mental health OT. We encourage members to use this resource in their organisations to shape the narrative of mental health occupational therapy.

Driver Assessment and Rehabilitation Jurisdictional Differences Guide 2024

The information provided in this guide has been developed by the OTA National Driving Taskforce to help occupational therapy driver assessors (OTDAs) navigate the legislation, regulations, and guidelines relevant to driving assessment and rehabilitation in their jurisdictions. It is solely for the use of Occupational Therapy Australia and its members.

Capability Framework for Occupational Therapists Supporting People with Environmental and Home Modifications

This draft Capability Framework outlines the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for occupational therapists supporting with environmental and home modifications across various career stages and across all relevant Australian service settings.

Capability Framework for Occupational Therapists Supporting People with Assistive Technology

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

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.

Help for members Digital Transformation and OTA Connect

Help for members through OTAs Digital Transformation.

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.

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.

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.

OTA Members’ EAP

We have partnered with Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider TELUS Health. TELUS Health is a full-service assistance program providing confidential work, life and well-being consultations.

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.

State and Territory Advisory Groups

State and Territory Advisory groups are advisory groups of OTA members from across states and territories to bring voice to local and state-based issues affecting occupational therapists and communities. Advisory groups 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.

OTA Board

Occupational Therapy Australia is governed by a Board of Directors elected by members and/or through the Nominations Committee.