Crisis and Disaster Response for Occupational Therapists

Occupational therapists need to anticipate the potential for disasters. Establishing systems and organising activities beforehand can facilitate a prompt and efficient response, mitigating fear and anxiety in the process. Take proactive measures to ensure the effectiveness of your response and recovery. This includes developing plans and arrangements grounded in risk assessments to enable your core business to continue amidst critical incidents or disruptions. Consider incorporating technology, such as telehealth platforms, to ensure continuity of care during disruptions.

Connections Autumn 2023

Read Connections Autumn 2023 edition here.

Connections Winter 2023

Read Connections Winter 2023 edition here.

Connections Spring 2023

Read Connections Spring 2023 edition here.

Connections Summer 2023

Read Connections Summer 2023 edition here.

Connections Autumn 2024

Read Connections Autumn 2024 edition here.

Announcing the 2025 Sylvia Docker Lectureship Recipient – Professor Mandy Stanley

Occupational Therapy Australia is proud to announce Professor Mandy Stanley as the recipient of the prestigious Sylvia Docker Award for 2025.

OTA Submission: Aged Care Rules on the Residential Care Service

OTA was invited to meet with the Department of Health and Aged Care to discuss our submission to the Aged Care Rules on the Residential Care Service list. The Chief OT, Michelle Oliver and senior OTA policy staff met with the Department on Monday 3 March.

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.

OTA's 2025 Federal Election Statement

The 2025 Federal Election is a critical opportunity to invest in the allied health workforce and strengthen healthcare services. This Statement outlines 27 strategic calls to action essential for addressing pressing issues. A detailed breakdown of each ask is available in OTA’s 2025 Federal Election Playbook.

Connections Winter 2024

Read Connections Winter 2024 edition here.

CEO Member Update February 2025

OTA CEO Samantha Hunter shares the latest updates on the outlook for Federal Election, her recent round table discussion with Senator Jordan Steele-John and WA members, capability framework announcements, and the use of AI in practice and how this technology may support, challenge and redefine aspects of the profession.

Terms and Conditions

The information provided on this website is for use of a general nature only and is not intended to be relied upon as, nor to be a substitute for, specific professional advice. No responsibility for loss occasioned to any persons acting on or refraining from action as a result of any material on this website can be accepted. This includes links to all external organisations.

Help for members Digital Transformation and OTA Connect

Help for members through OTAs Digital Transformation.

Capability Framework for Occupational Therapists working with Children, Young People and Families

The Capability Framework for Occupational Therapists working with Children, Young People and Families proposes a set of key capabilities (knowledge, skills and attitudes) for occupational therapists working across a range of service settings. The framework recognises that paediatric practice is within the scope of all registered occupational therapists.

Monash: Early Vocational Rehabilitation Webinar (July 2024)

In July 2024, OTA hosted a Member Session: Towards Work – Early vocational rehabilitation after traumatic brain injury, multi-trauma orthopaedic injuries or spinal cord injury by Dr Pam Ross and Yash Bedekar.

DHAC: National Strategic Action Plan for Pain Management

The Action Plan will provide a key step towards a national and holistic policy framework that will support consumers, health practitioners and the wider community to improve the quality of life for people living with pain, their families and carers and minimise its impact.

DHAC: Progress Report - Implementation of the Recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety

The report provides an objective and independent assessment by the Interim Inspector-General of Aged Care on progress of the implementation of the Royal Commission’s recommendations. It identifies progress against each recommendation, presents stakeholder views and initial observations.

DHAC: Australia’s Primary Health Care 10 Year Plan (2022-2032)

The Australian Government’s Future focused primary health care: Australia’s Primary Health Care 10 Year Plan 2022–2032 is about strengthening primary health care as part of the health system and providing an agenda for primary health care reform over a decade.

DHAC: Assistive Technologies and Home Modifications Scheme for in-home aged care

The content in this report reflects the output from a co-design process that sought input from older Australians and their families and informal carers, industry professionals and government stakeholders.

OTA Member Logo Terms and Conditions

The following membership logo terms and conditions apply to all Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) members. Please take the time to read and understand these Terms and Conditions before you commence using the OTA member logo.

Position Statement: The Role of Allied Health Assistants in Supporting Occupational Therapy Practice (2015)

This position paper defines the roles, scope, and operational and professional responsibilities of Allied Health Assistants (AHAs) in the delivery of occupational therapy in hospital and the community. The paper provides a structure for occupational therapists to effectively supervise and delegate to AHAs, and will assist occupational therapists in understanding the clinical governance requirements in facilitating the AHA role within an occupational therapy service.

OTA National Conference and Exhibition 2025

State-Based Issues

We advocate across Australian states and territories to advance the recognition of OTs and address known issues affecting OTs and the people the support.

Team and Governance

OTA is led by a team of dedicated professionals who seek to protect and progress the profession.

CPD and Events

Our evidence-based CPD and events will prepare you for every situation and empower you with the skills and knowledge to excel in your practice. We offer learning opportunities across all practice areas and levels of experience.