NDIS Integrity Inquiry: Last chance to have your say

A parliamentary inquiry is underway into the integrity of the NDIS. For OTs, this goes to the heart of delivering safe, ethical and effective services. OTA is developing a submission and invites members to share their experiences and insights by Monday 20 April to help shape our response. Please email policy@otaus.com.au

The Joint Standing Committee on the National Disability Insurance Scheme will inquire into and report on: 

• the nature and extent of non-compliance, including fraud and sharp practices, in the National Disability Insurance Scheme
• the impacts of non-compliance on NDIS participants and their families 
• the effectiveness and adequacy of successive government policies to improve scheme integrity, safeguard participants, and tackle non-compliance 
• any legislative or other reforms required to strengthen scheme integrity.

Final submissions close on Friday 24 April.

TAC’s new OT Access Registry

The Victorian Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) new OT Access Registry opened on 13 April. OTs must register to receive the higher fee. TAC is holding a webinar on Wednesday 22 April at 12 noon (AEST) to explain the changes.

Read about the access registry on the TAC’s website.   

Register for the webinar here.

Ahpra webinar: How supervision works in practice

Do you support practitioners or students across the health system? This session is part of Ahpra’s free webinar series in April exploring performance notifications, student regulation and real-world supervision. Hear from decision-makers, gain practical insights and ask questions live.

When: Tuesday 21 April, 2.15–3.15pm (AEST)  

Register here.

Digital health education webinar: My Health Record in practice

AHPA is hosting a free webinar in May for allied health professionals. Join national experts for a practical session to build your understanding of how to access and use My Health Record in practice. Learn how to access, share and apply clinical information securely, connect via software or the National Provider Portal, and understand the impact of sharing by default.

When: Wednesday 6 May, 5–6pm (AEST)

Register here.

NDIS 2026 Annual Pricing Review

The NDIA Board is currently considering information provided through the 2026 Annual Pricing Review consultation before making a recommendation in the coming weeks. Occupational Therapy Australia strongly recommends a decisive pricing response to stabilise and strengthen the occupational therapy market under the NDIS. Specifically, OTA recommends:

• delivering an immediate 11% uplift to OT hourly rates
• reinstating 100% travel funding for occupational therapy 
• developing a fit-for-purpose allied health pricing model

We will continue to update members on the APR as more information becomes available. Read our submission here.

We acknowledge that the current reforms may be causing stress and anxiety for occupational therapy business owners, and those who work in occupational therapy businesses, including private practitioners. OTA is here to support you. Members can access our EAP service, TELUS Health. Organisations like Beyond Blue also offer mental health coaching for small business owners.