News

Policy and advocacy update - 16 October 2025

Read about OTA policy and advocacy updates and developments this week, including the NDIS Therapy supports operational guideline, AT-HM guidelines, and an open position for Digital Health Advisers.

Advancing the use of telehealth technology for older people

Advancing the use of telehealth technology by occupational therapists to provide home safety risk assessments for community dwelling older people.

Q & A with Kate Purslowe: Understanding the Aged Care Quality Standards updates

Occupational therapist Kate Purslowe has worked in the aged care sector since 2012, across residential aged care, transition care and the NDIS. She is currently the Allied Health Coordinator at Brightwater Group and a sessional academic at Curtin University. Kate brings a deep and practical understanding of the aged care system, service delivery, and is presenting at OTA's upcoming event CPD Empower Perth.

Media Release: Minister responds to industry concerns by delaying Aged Care Act implementation

Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) acknowledges the announcement by the Hon. Sam Rae MP to defer the implementation of the new Aged Care Act to 1 November 2025.

Delay to Aged Care Act will enable clarification and support transition

OTA welcomes the delay to the introduction of the new Aged Care Act until November as a response to the significant concerns raised by the sector. However, for the delay to be meaningful, the key issues raised by the sector need to be addressed.

Practical tips: Indicative pricing for Support at Home

OTA shares the concerns of members about a number of aspects of the new Aged Care Act and associated Rules, that will come into effect on 1 July. Of prime concern are the recently released Indicative Prices for Support at Home.

Federal Election 2025: OTA Scorecard and Summary

Ahead of the 2025 federal election, OTA has compiled a summary of major party commitments relevant to occupational therapy practice and the broader allied health sector.

Spotlight on Aged Care: How we're advocating for our members

OTA has raised concerns about the new arrangements for funding for Assistive Technology and Home Modifications when Support at Home commences 1 July 2025, and in particular the lifetime cap of $15,000 for Home Modifications in submissions to the Aged Care Rules.