OTA steps up national advocacy in Canberra and Sydney

Last week, OTA ramped up our national advocacy efforts, with our Chief Executive Officer and Head of Policy & Advocacy meeting federal politicians and sector representatives in Canberra and Sydney.

Policy and advocacy update 11 September 2025

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week.

Learning that sets the standard for OTs Working with Children, Young People & Families

Every occupational therapist deserves to feel confident in their practice – this is especially true for foundational practitioners, whether they are new to the profession, returning after a break from practice, or moving into a new area of practice.

MEDIA RELEASE: OTs on the brink as new data shows deep impact of NDIS cuts

NDIS price freezes have left hundreds of occupational therapy businesses on the brink of financial ruin, with thousands of NDIS clients at risk of being left without care.

OTA’s survey of OTs shows dire consequences of NDIS pricing decision

Data from OTA’s recent survey of 600 OTs across Australia paints a concerning picture for future access to OT services under the NDIS, following the NDIA’s devastating pricing decision.

Win for NDIS transparency in the Senate

Thanks to our members who took urgent action on Tuesday by calling their Senators to support a Greens’ motion to compel the government to release a report it received from the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority (IHACPA) titled *A fresh approach to NDIS pricing – Final report*.

Media Release: Support, choice vital for Thriving Kids

The Thriving Kids scheme will leave thousands of Australians with disability without the right support if the concerns of families and the sector are not heard, according to a key allied health peak body.

A grounded theory study: Mental health professionals’ perspectives on the involvement of police for people experiencing mental health issues

The research seeks to understand the experiences and decision-making related to mental health professionals’ involvement of police in adult community-based mental health settings.

Breaking: Major government announcement on new children’s early intervention services

This week's major announcement from NDIS Minister Mark Butler at the National Press Club has provided a roadmap for the future of early intervention services for children with mild and moderate developmental delay and autism aged under 9.

Stronger foundations, smarter practice: Introducing OTA’s Practice Essentials

Ailsa Leslie, Head of Professional Practice at OTA, shares her thoughts on OTA's  Practice Essentials – a new suite of learning programs designed to ensure you’re practising with clarity, confidence, and credibility. 

Consultation on Foundational Supports for children with developmental concern, delay and/or disability and their families, carers and kin

Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) welcomes the opportunity to provide a submission in relation to targeted foundational supports - Foundational Supports for children with developmental concern, delay and/or disability and their families, carers and kin.

Submission: Productivity Commission – Final Review of National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement

In this interim report, the Productivity Commission presents its initial findings and draft recommendations.

Submission: Productivity Commission Interim Report on Final Review of National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement

The Productivity Commission (PC) has been asked by the Australian Government to conduct the final review of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement.

Submission: Department of Social Services consultation on NDIS Supports rule

OTA's submission provides feedback on the overall approach outlined in the NDIS Supports Lists, and specific inclusions and omissions in specific lists, which is detailed in this content.

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.

NDIS Pricing Campaign

OTA needs your voice. The NDIA’s frozen pricing is unsustainable. We’re calling for fair funding now - before more OTs leave the workforce. Join the campaign.

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.

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.

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: NDIS

Frequently asked questions about the NDIS and NDIA.

FAQ: My Aged Care (MAC)

Frequently asked questions about My Aged Care (MAC) here.

Help for members Digital Transformation and OTA Connect

Help for members through OTAs Digital Transformation.

Membership

We offer memberships that empower your career. Our memberships are designed to match your level of experience with benefits designed to help you and your practice.

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.

Courses, Learning Modules & Programs

We offer a variety of on-demand, self-directed learning and development, covering a broad range of practice areas and topics.

Workforce

We know there are significant workforce challenges and opportunities for the occupational therapy profession, such as attracting and retaining OTs. To address these challenges, we've consulted with our members to develop a workforce development plan.

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.

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.

Workforce Development Project

Here at OTA, we know there are significant workforce challenges and opportunities for our profession. To address these challenges, we've developed the OTA Occupational Therapy Workforce Plan. It was devised using an evidence-based approach which included a literature review, an analysis of OT workforce data, a survey of Australian occupational therapists, interviews and focus groups.

SA Advisory Council

The Occupational Therapy Australia SA Advisory Council represents the interests and provides advice to support the members affiliated with the state. The Advisory Council comprises OTA members from across the state who bring a diversity of skills and experience to the Association. Advisory Council members welcome and value member input and feedback.