OTA steps up national advocacy in Canberra and Sydney

Last week, OTA ramped up our national advocacy efforts, with our Chief Executive Officer and Head of Policy & Advocacy meeting federal politicians and sector representatives in Canberra and Sydney.

Policy and advocacy update 11 September 2025

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week.

October Interest Groups

Ready to be inspired and energised with like-minded peers? Explore our October Interest Groups. Interest Groups bring together OTs focused on different areas of practice to discuss relevant topics and new developments. The meetings offer peer and expert support, networking and learning opportunities.

Learning that sets the standard for OTs Working with Children, Young People & Families

Every occupational therapist deserves to feel confident in their practice – this is especially true for foundational practitioners, whether they are new to the profession, returning after a break from practice, or moving into a new area of practice.

MEDIA RELEASE: OTs on the brink as new data shows deep impact of NDIS cuts

NDIS price freezes have left hundreds of occupational therapy businesses on the brink of financial ruin, with thousands of NDIS clients at risk of being left without care.

OTA’s survey of OTs shows dire consequences of NDIS pricing decision

Data from OTA’s recent survey of 600 OTs across Australia paints a concerning picture for future access to OT services under the NDIS, following the NDIA’s devastating pricing decision.

Step into Spring with our September CPD

Our evidence-based and high-quality CPD in September will empower you with the skills and knowledge to excel in your practice.

Win for NDIS transparency in the Senate

Thanks to our members who took urgent action on Tuesday by calling their Senators to support a Greens’ motion to compel the government to release a report it received from the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority (IHACPA) titled *A fresh approach to NDIS pricing – Final report*.

Media Release: Support, choice vital for Thriving Kids

The Thriving Kids scheme will leave thousands of Australians with disability without the right support if the concerns of families and the sector are not heard, according to a key allied health peak body.

A grounded theory study: Mental health professionals’ perspectives on the involvement of police for people experiencing mental health issues

The research seeks to understand the experiences and decision-making related to mental health professionals’ involvement of police in adult community-based mental health settings.

Occupational Therapy - Frequently Asked Questions

Occupational Therapy – FAQs provides clear answers to common queries about occupational therapy, understand its role in promoting health, wellbeing, and participation in daily life.

OT Week 2025

OT Week is our biggest annual celebration of the extraordinary impact occupational therapists make every day.

FAQ: Environmental and Home Modifications

FAQs on home and environmental modifications.

FAQ: Assistive Technology

FAQs on assistive technology.

Poster - Understanding occupational therapy in education

Download the "Understanding occupational therapy in education" flyer.

Poster - An ABC of Occupational Therapy in Education

Download the "An ABC of Occupational Therapy in Education" poster.

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.

Consultation on General Foundational Supports

OTA welcomed the Report of the Independent Review of the NDIS, and its recognition of the obvious need for more support services in Australian communities for those who cannot access the NDIS.

Consultation on Foundational Supports for children with developmental concern, delay and/or disability and their families, carers and kin

Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) welcomes the opportunity to provide a submission in relation to targeted foundational supports - Foundational Supports for children with developmental concern, delay and/or disability and their families, carers and kin.

Submission: Productivity Commission – Final Review of National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement

In this interim report, the Productivity Commission presents its initial findings and draft recommendations.

Submission: Productivity Commission Interim Report on Final Review of National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement

The Productivity Commission (PC) has been asked by the Australian Government to conduct the final review of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement.

Practice Essentials

OTA’s Practice Essentials are self-directed, online learning modules designed to help you meet the demands of your practice area – with confidence and competence – at the foundational level.

Submission: Department of Social Services consultation on NDIS Supports rule

OTA's submission provides feedback on the overall approach outlined in the NDIS Supports Lists, and specific inclusions and omissions in specific lists, which is detailed in this content.

FAQ: OTA NDIS Pricing Campaign

This FAQ provides answers to common questions about OTA's NDIS Pricing Campaign, including key issues raised, advocacy efforts, and how occupational therapists can support fair and sustainable pricing under the NDIS.

CPD Empower

Face-to-face CPD workshops for OTs in Perth, Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. Choose your stream, earn CPD hours, and build skills in specialist practice areas.

National Conference & Exhibition 2025 Gallery

The recently held OTAUS 2025 brought together occupational therapy professionals from across Australia to share insights, celebrate achievements, and explore the future of practice through workshops, presentations, and networking opportunities.

Connections submissions

Share your expertise with the OTA community. Submit your article to Connections magazine and connect with peers across the occupational therapy profession.

NDIS Pricing Campaign

OTA needs your voice. The NDIA’s frozen pricing is unsustainable. We’re calling for fair funding now - before more OTs leave the workforce. Join the campaign.

Foundational Supports

OTA are working to support and advance the critical role that OTs will play in the design and delivery of foundational supports. As this reform process continues, we will provide updates on opportunities for consultation and advocacy. We will also offer guidance to support coordinated advocacy efforts across the sector and ensure our profession is well represented in these changes.

Federal Election Marginal Seats

With the Federal Election now underway, this is a critical opportunity to ensure occupational therapy is prioritised by candidates and political parties