Policy and Advocacy update – 1 October 2026

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including an update on Thriving Kids initiatives, funding changes for NDIS supports, and many more.

National Thriving Kids update

OTA ran the Thriving Kids update across Australia, with each state and territory developing locally tailored supports for children and their families.

World Mental Health Day 2026: Together We Thrive

Join Occupational Therapy Australia for World Mental Health Day 2026 and discover how occupational therapists support mental health, connection and meaningful participation.

It’s time to talk about occupational therapy and dementia

Dementia Action Week (21–27 September) is an opportunity to raise awareness of dementia and highlight the vital role of occupational therapists in supporting everyday participation and independence.

NDIS reforms submission guidelines

A practical guide to help occupational therapists understand the NDIS reforms and make informed submissions, highlighting the potential impacts on OT practice, participants and access to essential services.

October Interest Groups 2026

Ready to be inspired and energised with like-minded peers? Explore our October Interest Groups.

Guide to making a submission to the DVA Annual Report inquiry

OTA is preparing a submission to the inquiry into the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) 2024–25 Annual Report.

Research Study: Virtual reality for hospital-to-home transitions after brain injury

Australian OTs’ views on virtual reality for home transition.

Occupational therapy students to receive Commonwealth Prac Payment

Government expands Commonwealth Prac Payment to include OT students.

Mastering generative AI: Advanced tools & techniques for OTs

This advanced workshop is for OTs who are already confident with the basics of generative AI and are ready to explore more sophisticated tools and real-world applications to support and streamline their work.

Getting job ready with Clare Jones, Director at MediRecruit

Get job-ready with practical career insights, application tips, and interview advice from Clare Jones at MediRecruit.

Research Study: Immersive VR shopping tool for IADL training

This study aims to evaluate the acceptability, usability, and feasibility of a custom-made, fully immersive Virtual Reality (VR) shopping tool (ShopWell VR) for the assessment and training of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) across different population groups.

Board Director Nominations 2026 now open

We are seeking suitably qualified and experienced individuals to contribute their governance skills and expertise as valued Board Directors. This year, there are two member elected Board Director roles available.

Tools to assist your CPD planning

By planning your CPD early, you’ll feel confident, organised and ready to make the most of the year ahead.

OTA Submission: NSW Workers Compensation Reform regulations and guidelines

OTA have made a submission to SIRA (State Insurance Regulatory Authority) in NSW around the state's Workers Compensation reforms, focused on the strong role occupational therapists play in psychosocial recovery, vocational rehabilitation, and return-to-work planning.

NDIS Amendment Bill 2026 - OTA Submission

OTA welcomes the opportunity to provide feedback on the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026.

Guide to making a submission on the NDIS Future Generations Bill

The Australian Parliament is considering the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026.

No OTs, No NDIS 

No OTs, No NDIS is a OTA campaign responding to NDIS reforms that are limiting access to essential occupational therapy supports and impacting participants, families and communities.

Logging into OTA Connect

How to log into OTA Connect to access member resources.

OTA Submission: NDIS Rules – Public consultation on New Framework Planning

OTA have submitted formal feedback to Government calling for: the release of the Exposure Draft.

OTA Submission: Senate inquiry into transition of CHSP to Support at Home

OTA welcomes the opportunity to contribute to Senate Inquiry into the transition of the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) to the Support at Home Program (the Inquiry) and to highlight several significant concerns relating to the new Support at Home program.

NDIS - Learning Hub

Explore our available events on NDIS, designed to expand your knowledge, build skills, and connect with peers through expert-led learning opportunities.

State and Territory Advisory Councils

State and Territory Advisory Councils are advisory councils of OTA members from across states and territories to bring voice to local and state-based issues affecting occupational therapists and communities. Advisory Councils provide pivotal intelligence to inform OTA of the opportunities, emerging issues, and changing landscape to enable OTA to be responsive to all of our members' needs, no matter where they reside.

OT Notification Navigator Service

Full-Time, Part-Time and New Graduate members who receive a notification from industry regulators can utilise this service to access guidance from a qualified Occupational Therapist about how to navigate the notification process.

QLD Advisory Council

The Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) Queensland Advisory Council represents the interests and provides advice to support the members affiliated with the state.

History

Occupational Therapy Australia was formed in 2009 after national members voted to consolidate all divisions within the Australian Association of Occupational Therapists (AAOT) to form Occupational Therapy Australia Limited.