Research Study: Immersive VR shopping tool for IADL training

This study aims to evaluate the acceptability, usability, and feasibility of a custom-made, fully immersive Virtual Reality (VR) shopping tool (ShopWell VR) for the assessment and training of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) across different population groups.

Thank you for your participation!

Thank you for input in our workforce survey!

Research Study: Developing the safe steps falls program

This study aims to support strategies in preventing falls for older adults with cognitive impairment.

NDIS pricing decision risks “national health emergency” as OT workforce pushed to breaking point

The NDIA's decision to freeze occupational therapy pricing has raised concerns about reduced access to essential services, with warnings that many Australians may struggle to receive the care needed to maintain their safety, independence, and community participation.

Tools to assist your CPD planning

By planning your CPD early, you’ll feel confident, organised and ready to make the most of the year ahead.

Australian Competency Standards for OT Driver Assessors 2026

A comprehensive guide to the standards which represent the knowledge, skills, and attributes which the profession considers necessary for driver trained occupational therapists to provide quality assessment and rehabilitation service for drivers with functional impairments.

Research Survey: Immersive VR in Australian occupational therapy practice

To develop best practice guidance and resources to support occupational therapists to implement immersive virtual reality (iVR) into hospital-based practice.

OTA Submission: NSW Workers Compensation Reform regulations and guidelines

OTA have made a submission to SIRA (State Insurance Regulatory Authority) in NSW around the state's Workers Compensation reforms, focused on the strong role occupational therapists play in psychosocial recovery, vocational rehabilitation, and return-to-work planning.

Policy and Advocacy update – 4 June 2026

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including VIC Disability and Autism Plan, NDIS Amendment Bill and many more.

OTA Submission: IHACPA for the pricing framework for support at home Aged Care services

OTA recommend pricing for Support at Home should align to evidence-based business overheads that Occupational Therapists must factor into their operating budgets.

Research Survey: OT perspectives on sensory-based care for older adults

This international survey will help identify common practice patterns, gaps, and needs, thereby contributing to enhanced evidence-informed practice and policy.

All in for National Reconciliation Week 2026

At Occupational Therapy Australia, reconciliation is central to our commitment to culturally safe practice. We work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through advocacy, partnerships, cultural learning and ongoing reflection.

Federal Budget 2026–27: What it means for Occupational Therapy

Last night, the Treasurer handed down this Government’s fifth Federal Budget. Alongside property tax reform, NDIS reform is a central feature of this Budget, confirming the Government’s intention to significantly reshape eligibility, assessment, planning and access to services and supports. These changes will have material implications for occupational therapists and people they work with, particularly those working in disability, early childhood, psychosocial supports and aged care. This update provides OTA’s initial summary of Budget measures most relevant to the occupational therapy workforce. We will continue to analyse the detail as it becomes available and advocate on issues of concern to the profession.

Research Survey: Exploring the skills and interventions of mental health occupational therapists

This survey is to understand OTs current practice - who they work with, what interventions and assessments they use, what models of OT they use and what are their challenges and barriers faced.

Strengthening cyber security in practice: simple steps for OTs

This second instalment focuses on practical steps you can take to strengthen your practice’s cybersecurity.

Normal life is being disrupted (again): Navigating disruption in a changing world (2026)

Normal life is being disrupted (again) is a practical, easy-to-use guide designed for immediate application in clinical and community settings.

Member Update: Aged Care Reform Implementation (March 2026)

Watch the recorded updates on the implementation of aged care sector reforms that commenced on 1 November 2025.

Capability Framework for occupational therapists working with adults

A practical, evidence-informed framework designed to support occupational therapists working with adults across all practice settings.

Department of Health Disability and Ageing - Support at Home for Allied Health professionals

This is a presentation from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing to AHPA members including OTA on the key changes under the Support at Home Program relating to allied health professionals.

OTA Oration Award

This accolade aims to honour and showcase an occupational therapist who has made outstanding, innovative, and impactful contribution to the clinical practice of occupational therapy.

OTA Annual General Meetings

Occupational Therapy Australia will hold its next Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the 2025/26 year on Tuesday 17 November 2026.

Capability Framework for occupational therapists working with older people (aged care)

The Capability Framework for Occupational Therapists working with Older People (Aged Care) proposes a series of capabilities (knowledge, skills and attitudes) for occupational therapists practising across different aged care settings and support structures. The framework acknowledges that aged care is a complex and multifaceted area of clinical practice and is within the scope of all registered occupational therapists.

Foundational Supports

OTA are working to support and advance the critical role that OTs will play in the design and delivery of foundational supports. As this reform process continues, we will provide updates on opportunities for consultation and advocacy. We will also offer guidance to support coordinated advocacy efforts across the sector and ensure our profession is well represented in these changes.

Research

Members can access OTA's membership base to help progress and enhance their research. Find current OTA Member surveys and learn more about submitting your own here.

Association Awards

Occupational Therapy Australia has an awards program incorporating student awards, national awards, trustee prizes, and divisional awards. Browse to learn more about our current, upcoming and past Association Award opportunities.

Help for members Digital Transformation and OTA Connect

Help for members through OTAs Digital Transformation.

Practice Support

Your practice doesn't stop at your clients. Our practice support is designed to help you with your day-to-day whether you're just starting out, an experienced practitioner or managing a business - OTA practice support has been designed to support you.

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.

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.