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Bothered by noise, clothes or food: what to look for and where to get help

Strong reactions to noise, textures, lights, or movement.

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Understanding sensory sensitivities

Many parents worry when they notice their child is developing differently from other children the same age. These feelings are common, and help is available. Many allied health professionals in Australia work with children in this area.

Below are the services that most often help children with sensory sensitivities, and what each one does.

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Providers who can help with sensory sensitivities

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Cost & funding

Fees depend on the service, the provider and the length of the session. Ask each provider for their fees before the first visit.

Medicare pays a rebate for some OT sessions when your GP writes a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan and a referral first. Some private health extras policies pay part of the cost of OT.

If your child has an NDIS plan that includes these supports, you can use it. If your plan is self-managed or plan-managed, you can also use providers that are not NDIS registered. If the NDIA manages your plan, you must use registered providers.

  • NDIS price limit

    $193.99 an hour

    OT, 2026–27.

  • Medicare rebate

    $63.40 a session

    Up to 5 sessions a year with a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan.

Note: NDIS price limits are the national maximums for NDIA-managed and plan-managed plans (NDIS Pricing Schedule 2026–27); remote areas have higher limits. Medicare rebates are from MBS Online, 1 July 2026. Providers can charge more than the rebate. Assessment fees come from provider websites in April 2026.

Work out what you might pay: cost calculatorRead our guide to NDIS early intervention funding

Frequently asked questions

What does sensory overwhelm look like?

Some children have trouble taking in information from their senses, such as sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste, and responding to it. A child who is oversensitive might hide from everyday sounds like the vacuum cleaner, refuse to wear socks with seams on the toes, or eat only bland foods. Most children have trouble with sensory information sometimes, but when it happens often or for long periods, it can get in the way of learning, behaviour or development.

Is sensory processing disorder an official diagnosis?

No. Sensory processing disorder is not a recognised disorder in Australia, but you might hear the term used when sensory processing difficulties get in the way of everyday activities. If you're concerned, it's a good idea to talk with your GP. Your GP can refer your child to a health professional with expertise in sensory processing difficulties, such as an occupational therapist, a psychologist or a paediatrician.

Is sensory overwhelm a sign of autism?

It can be. Sensory processing difficulties affect up to 1 in 6 children, and they are more common in autistic children and children with neurodevelopmental conditions. The Better Health Channel lists sensory processing difficulties as part of autism. If you think your child has autism, see your doctor or a child health nurse.

How can an occupational therapist help?

Sensory processing difficulties might get better by themselves over time, but therapy and supports can help your child manage their current difficulties. An occupational therapist might work with your child on daily activities like brushing teeth or getting dressed. They might also use desensitisation programs, such as going into a noisy shop for a few minutes at first and staying longer over time. You don't need a GP referral to see an occupational therapist.

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