OTA contributes to key national consultations shaping the future of allied health and disability support

OTA continues to advocate for the profession through several major national consultations and reviews currently underway across health, disability and regulatory sectors.

On Monday 20 October, OTA Chief Executive Officer Samantha Hunter and Chief Occupational Therapist Michelle Oliver represented the profession at the Thriving Kids Inquiry public hearing in Melbourne. The roundtable session, held alongside representatives from APA, AOPA and SPA, explored how the proposed Thriving Kids framework can best support children with developmental concerns and disability.

In her opening comments, Samantha emphasised the critical role occupational therapists play in supporting children and families, noting that their expertise will be central to the program’s success. Michelle Oliver highlighted the opportunity Thriving Kids provides to strengthen supports not only for children, but also for parents, carers and others involved in their development. She also discussed the role of technology in improving access to services for families in regional and remote areas, and the importance of collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches in delivering effective outcomes.

OTA’s full submission to the Inquiry is available on both the Inquiry website and the OTA website.

Input on NDIS Evidence base – prescribing smart home appliances for cooking, cleaning and gardening

OTA is also seeking member input to inform the NDIS Evidence Advisory Committee’s assessment of smart home appliances – such as Thermomixers and robotic vacuums –used as disability supports. Members who prescribe these devices are encouraged to share insights about client needs, clinical justification, and cost–benefit considerations by emailing policy@otaus.com.au.

NDIS Commission review of NDIS Practice Standards

In parallel, the NDIS Commission is reviewing the NDIS Practice Standards to align them with findings from the NDIS Review and Disability Royal Commission. OTA will contribute feedback through peak body consultations in late October. Members and individuals can provide submissions or complete a survey by 13 November.

Other recent Advocacy updates include:

• NDIA’s new Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits, effective 24 November 2025, introducing revised claiming guidance, removal of COVID-related supports, and updates to the Modified Monash Model classifications. Visit NDIA’s pricing arrangements page to download the updated NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits Guide and the supporting documents.

• A review of the Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) Design Standard, with opportunities for stakeholders to register their interest.

• A Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) consultation on the regulation of digital mental health tools, open until 1 December 2025. Consultation open until 1 December 2025.

Through these consultations, OTA continues to ensure that the voice and expertise of occupational therapists are represented at every level of policy development and system reform.