OTA Policy Submissions
OTA prepares submissions to government enquiries, consultations and reform processes across Australia. These reflect the collective expertise, experience and perspectives of occupational therapists working across a wide range of settings.
Submissions are an important advocacy tool, helping to influence legislation, policy and programs that impact the health, wellbeing and participation of individuals, families and communities. Through this work, we advocate for the value of occupational therapy and for systems that better meet people’s needs.
Our submissions are informed by research, data and ongoing engagement with the sector, alongside the real-world experiences of occupational therapists and the lived experiences of the people and communities they support.
Through this process, OTA contributes to shaping policies that affect both the OT workforce and the communities we serve.
All OTA submissions can be accessed below. For enquiries, please contact policy@otaus.com.au.
Featured OTA Submissions
2026 OTA Federal Budget Submission
OTA is seeking investment in five key initiatives that will better support the health care needs of Australians, and ensure Thriving Kids meets the needs of children & families.
2026 OTA Annual Pricing Review Submission
Occupational Therapy Australia strongly recommends a decisive pricing response to stabilise and strengthen the occupational therapy market under the NDIS.
2026 OTA NDIS Rules – New Framework Planning Submission
OTA has put forward 10 key recommendations for consideration to the Australian Government.
Submission Lists
Fair Work Commission Gender -Based Undervaluation – Priority Awards Review
OTA made a submission to inform review of modern award classifications and minimum wage rates on work value grounds to remedy potential gender-based undervaluation.
NDIS Safety and Quality Commission Practice Standards Review
OTA made a submission to inform the NDIS Practice Standards Review, which aims to understand what changes are required to ensure workers and providers’ obligations are appropriate, focus on the right things, and are supported by good guidance that makes it clear how to deliver high-quality, safe and participant-centred supports.
Feedback to the Medical Benefits Scheme Review
OTA made a submission to inform the review into an evaluation of chronic disease management program under the MDS.
Department of Social Services consultation on NDIS Supports Rules
In July 2025, OTA made a submission to inform consultation on the NDIS Supports rules. NDIS rules set out how the NDIS Act works in practice.
QCAT Act Statutory Review
Our submission provided nine recommendations to enhance recognition of the role of allied health evidence within QCAT processes, improve procedural efficiency, address the impacts of tribunal delay on clients and practitioners and enhance accessibility and fairness.
Senate Inquiry into the transition of the Commonwealth Home Support Program
OTA’s submission focused on the impact of reforms on older people’s ability to access timely, safe and effective allied health services, as well as the impact of reforms on the OT workforce.
Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee Review of the Aged Care Rules
OTA’s submission focused on the specific provision of the Aged Care Rules that materially impact access to safe, effective person-centred and reablement focused care for older people, and implementation of the Support at Home program and its impact on OTs.