Published: Tuesday 13 January 2026
SA State Election: Advocacy update
The South Australian State Election is scheduled for 28 March 2026, and OTA has been actively engaging in election advocacy since August 2025. Our efforts have included writing to Ministers, Shadow Ministers, and crossbenchers, and meeting with key portfolios such as Health, Education, Autism, Veterans’ Affairs, and workforce.
Through consultation with SA members, including a survey circulated in August 2025, and informed by workforce evidence, OTA has developed targeted, election-ready proposals. These focus on:
- Improving hospital flow
- Implementing Thriving Kids initiatives
- Reforming workers’ compensation processes
OTA is now creating practical advocacy resources to help SA members engage locally. A direct email with further details will be sent to SA members soon.
The proposals are available in the Download section on the OTA website.
Tell us about the impacts of the New Aged Care Act
OTA is seeking member feedback on experiences under the new Aged Care Act, particularly regarding the implementation of the Support at Home program.
Last month, member feedback helped shape OTA’s advice to the Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, including pricing approaches for OT services. However, as reforms continue to be implemented, challenges remain for OTs delivering services on the ground.
To ensure our advocacy accurately reflects current experiences, the survey has been re-opened. Your insights will help strengthen OTA’s ongoing discussions with government and the Department and highlight areas where implementation may not align with the Act’s intent.
ReturnToWorkSA OT Register – Applications Close 27 February 2026
ReturnToWorkSA has established a Register of Occupational Therapists to support workers with severe or catastrophic injuries. Registered OTs provide specialised assessments, including:
- Care needs assessments
- Major home and vehicle modifications
- Complex equipment prescription
The Register connects claims officers with OTs who have the skills and experience to deliver high-quality, complex assessments. Benefits include longer service times, paid travel, structured report templates, and clearer expectations through a new Service Framework.
Applications are open to OTs with at least five years’ experience in complex or catastrophic injury.
Applications close: 27 February 2026
To apply or request the Service Framework, email: providers@rtwsa.com.
More information is available on the RTWSA website.
Have your say: EMPHN Allied Health Workforce Survey now open
Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (EMPHN) is inviting allied health professionals across its catchment to share their insights through the Allied Health Workforce Survey. This is a key opportunity to help shape the future of allied health services in Eastern Melbourne.
The survey seeks to understand the current workforce profile, challenges, and opportunities across disciplines. Findings will directly inform planning, commissioning, and advocacy efforts, supporting allied health providers and strengthening multi-disciplinary care across general practice and local health networks.
Who can participate?
The survey is open to all allied health professionals practising within the EMPHN catchment, including the following Local Government Areas (LGAs): Boroondara, Banyule, Yarra Ranges, Whitehorse, Monash, Whittlesea, Knox, Nillumbik, Manningham, Maroondah, Mitchell (part), and Murrindindi (part).
Key details
- Closing date: Friday, 30 January 2026
- Time to complete: 15–20 minutes
- Incentive: Enter the draw to win an Apple Watch Series 10 (approx. RRP $650)
- Privacy: Responses will be analysed in aggregate only. No identifying information will be reported. A summary of key findings will be shared with participants.
Complete the survey today and contribute to shaping the allied health workforce in Eastern Melbourne.
