News

OTA Post-Budget Analysis 2025-26

Read the analysis of the Budget that is relevant to Occupational Therapy. Read OTA’s media release. As anticipated, this was a shorter, more targeted budget. Just three weeks ago the Government had been expected to announce an election and forego a Federal Budget until after the next election.

OTA's Federal Election Toolkit is now available!

With the 2025 Federal Election fast approaching, now is the time to advocate for occupational therapy. OTA’s Federal Election Advocacy Toolkit provides everything you need to engage with local candidates and highlight our profession’s priorities.

OTA's 2025 Federal Election Statement

The 2025 Federal Election is a critical opportunity to invest in the allied health workforce and strengthen healthcare services. This Statement outlines 27 strategic calls to action essential for addressing pressing issues. A detailed breakdown of each ask is available in OTA’s 2025 Federal Election Playbook.

New Victorian Chief Allied Health Officer

Rachel Elliott has been appointed as the new Victorian Chief Allied Health Officer, bringing over 25 years of experience as an occupational therapist. She will lead reforms and advancements in allied health services across Victoria. OTA has congratulated Ms. Elliott on her appointment and looks forward to collaborating with her to support and advocate for occupational therapists.

NDIS Announcement: The National Disability Insurance Agency has announced new work to design and develop NDIS assessment tools

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) announced that it has commenced work to design and test a new way of gathering information about the support people with disability need and to set their NDIS budgets.

National Allied Health Workforce Strategy

The Federal Government has released a draft of the National Allied Health Workforce Strategy for public consultation, with feedback open until March 3, 2025. The strategy focuses on five key priorities, including workforce recognition, data improvement, sustainability, and support for Indigenous and rural allied health professionals.

Kruk Update and AHPRA Vexatious Complaints Review

Read the latest updates on the registration process for overseas-trained health professionals and the release of AHPRA’s Framework for Identifying and Managing Vexatious Notifications.