NDIS Therapy Supports Operational Guideline Released

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has released a new Operational Guideline on therapy supports. The guideline clarifies the types of therapy supports available under the NDIS and the professions authorised to provide them, explicitly recognising occupational therapy as a key profession.

The guideline outlines how participants can request therapy supports in their NDIS plan and the types of evidence that can support these requests. It also clarifies what information should be included in assessment reports and end-of-plan reports. Importantly, it provides guidance on the role and supervision of Allied Health Assistants (grades 1 and 2) when delivering delegated therapy activities.

Additionally, the guideline confirms a list of services that are not considered therapy supports, building on last year’s guidance, including gym memberships, alternative therapies, animal therapy, massage therapy, social programs, and therapy-in-a-box options. Read the new guideline here. The NDIA will also publish supporting FAQs soon to assist with interpretation.

OTA Submission – Thriving Kids Inquiry

OTA has made a submission to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Disability Inquiry into Thriving Kids. Our submission, developed with input from our early childhood expert advisory group, a paediatric OT roundtable, and over 40 stakeholders, provides 34 recommendations to ensure Thriving Kids meets the needs of children with developmental delay and autism.

Aged Care – Preparing for the New Aged Care Act

With the new Aged Care Act commencing 1 November, OTA has developed resources to support members navigating the transition to the Support at Home Program, replacing Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care. Resources are available under Aged Care Act 2025 here.

Release of AT-HM Guidelines

The Department of Health has also released Assistive Technology and Home Modifications (AT-HM) Scheme guidelines, recognising the critical role of OTs in prescribing home modifications. OTA continues to advocate regarding the $15,000 lifetime cap on modifications.

CHSP Providers in the ACT – Have Your Say

Ahead of the new Act, Ageing Australia is inviting CHSP providers in the ACT to complete a short survey to shape support and guide discussions at the CHSP Community Care Forum on 20 November 2025.

Digital Health Advisers – Recruitment Open

The Australian Digital Health Agency is recruiting Digital Health Advisers to contribute clinical perspectives to national digital health initiatives. Interested candidates can apply via AusTender RFT12493.