OTA on NDIS Reform and media coverage

We recognise that recent media commentary about the NDIS, particularly discussion of further reform and cost cutting measures are causing concern and distress for many of our members and for people with disability and their families more broadly.  

Ongoing speculation about reductions to supports, amplified through sustained media coverage, can have a real and unsettling impact on participants, families and the workforce. Further, irresponsibly worded media coverage risks undermining and understating the value of the many allied health professions, including the occupational therapy workforce, that deliver crucial services to people with disability through the NDIS. 

With reporting this week focusing on the Government’s establishment of an NDIS Sustainability Taskforce to reduce Scheme cost, and clear public signals that the Government is considering further changes to the NDIS, OTA remains steadfast in our direction and our mission. As the national peak body for occupational therapy, representing one of the largest workforces delivering services under the NDIS, we will continue to advocate for the voice of occupational therapy to be central to any reform. 

We are clear that a sustainable NDIS relies on good policy design and effective administration, not on measures that create uncertainty or shift responsibility onto people who rely on supports or the qualified professionals who deliver them. OTA will continue to advocate for pricing and policy settings that support a sustainable workforce, high quality services and strong outcomes for participants. These are essential to the long-term success of the scheme.  

OTA will be contacting relevant Ministers and Government spokespeople to raise these concerns and to reiterate that a sustainable occupational therapy workforce is crucial to the sustainability of the NDIS. Without OTs, there is no NDIS. 

Continue reading OTA Weekly to stay up to date.

Inquiry into TAC claims: Share your experience

The Victorian Parliament is conducting an inquiry into claims made through the TAC, including legitimate and disputed claims, provider fee issues and interactions with services such as the NDIS. OTA is seeking member feedback through a survey to help inform a possible submission. If you have experience working with TAC clients, we encourage you to share practical examples and evidence where possible. Members can also choose to make individual submissions.  

Complete our survey by Sunday 12 April. Read more about the inquiry on the Victorian Parliament website.

OTA advocates for practitioners in QCAT Act Review

On 31 March, OTA participated in a Roundtable discussion with the Honourable David Thomas and the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) Act Review team. Alongside other professional associations, OTA expanded on key issues raised in our earlier submission regarding proposed changes to the Act, including the composition of health practitioner panels. 

OTA advocated for reforms that ensure QCAT processes are fair, relevant and supportive for practitioners involved in proceedings, while maintaining strong regulatory oversight. 

The final report from the review is expected by 31 July, after which it will be provided to the Attorney-General and tabled in Parliament.

You can read OTA’s full submission on our Policy Submissions webpage. 

Upcoming Webinar: Cyber Safe Practice Admin – Reducing risk when using digital health tools

The Hunter Postgraduate Medical Institute (HMPI) is hosting a practical webinar to strengthen your practice's cyber safety and reduce risks associated with digital health tools. By the end of the session, you will be able to identify commonly used digital health tools and understand how their safe and accurate use by administrative staff underpins secure, efficient patient care. 

• When: Thursday 23 April, 6.30–8pm (AEST)
• Cost: Free for HPMI members / $88 (GST inclusive) non members

Register here.