
Published: Wednesday 12 February 2025
Capability framework for Occupational Therapists working with children, young people and families (Paediatrics)
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.
The framework aims to:
- facilitate occupational therapists’ professional-reflection and decision making regarding their practice and professional development
- demonstrate the clinical practice expectations of occupational therapists at different career stages
- support advocacy of the role and function of paediatric occupational therapy to government, funding bodies, employers, managers and other key stakeholders so that services are available to children, youth and families when needed
Paediatric practice is complex and multifaceted. Included within this framework are key capabilities that are child and occupation focused, that support family-centred practice and that are deemed essential for supporting safe, effective and ethical practice with children, young people and families. The capabilities included are specific to paediatric occupational therapy practice.
Download the full capability framework below.
Related Tags
Related topics

18 September 2025
OT Awareness Pack
Resources to help you promote occupational therapy to the wider public

5 August 2025
Consultation on General Foundational Supports
OTA welcomed the Report of the Independent Review of the NDIS, and its recognition of the obvious need for more support services in Australian communities for those who cannot access the NDIS.

15 January 2025
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.