Since we shared an update on the NSW Thriving Kids procurement process last Friday, more than 50 occupational therapists have already emailed the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ).

That response is significant. It tells DCJ, clearly and collectively, that private paediatric occupational therapists are paying attention and that we are deeply concerned about the direction of Thriving Kids.

Since then, the DCJ has shared that they are exploring the option of establishing a procurement process to establish up a panel arrangement for private allied health practitioners. They have said that further information will be provided in the second half of 2026.

But this issue is far from resolved. Our advocacy is working and now is the time to keep the pressure on.

What’s happening in NSW

Last week, DCJ announced an Expression of Interest (EOI) process for Thriving Kids that raises serious concerns for the profession and for families.

According to DCJ procurement information, Thriving Kids services will be delivered by: 

• NSW Government agencies, and
• Non‑government organisations (NGOs) commissioned by DCJ

Separate processes are proposed for:

• NSW Government agencies, and
• Private providers, “where required".

That wording is critical and concerning.

It suggests that private paediatric OT providers may only be included as an exception, rather than as a core part of service delivery. For many members, this effectively excludes them from the outset. 

More information is available on the DCJ website.

What this means for children, families and the OT workforce

Thriving Kids has been positioned as a major reform designed to improve access and outcomes for children and families across NSW. That ambition cannot be realised without private occupational therapists.

A model that relies primarily on NGOs will:

• Restrict access for families, particularly in regional, outer‑metro and high‑demand areas
• Delay or disrupt care for children who rely on timely, specialised OT support
• Undercut the intent of Thriving Kids before services even commence

Private paediatric OTs are not supplementary to the system. They are a central part of how children currently access care across NSW.

OTA’s response

OTA is seeking urgent clarification from DCJ and is strongly advocating for this approach to be reconsidered.

We are making it clear that:

• Private paediatric OTs are essential to service capacity, choice and continuity
• Excluding them will harm families and place additional pressure on an already stretched system
• Thriving Kids cannot succeed without meaningful inclusion of the private workforce

Member advocacy is already strengthening this message and remains critical.

Key NSW details

• Procurement process: Two‑stage (EOI → Request for Tender)
• Services expected to commence: October 2026 
• EOIs close: 3pm, 29 May

What NSW members can do now

Thank you to those who have already contacted DCJ. If you haven’t yet, your voice still matters.

OTA is calling on NSW members to continue advocating directly.

• DCJ: thrivingkids@dcj.nsw.gov.au
• NSW Premier, Chris Minns: kogarah@parliament.nsw.gov.au
• NSW Minister, Kate Washington: portstephens@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Please cc: policy@otaus.com.au 

Each email reinforces the same message: children and families need access to private occupational therapists.

Submit an EOI

Even where eligibility is unclear, submitting an EOI sends a strong signal.

It says plainly: Thriving Kids cannot succeed without private occupational therapists.