Service · 1329 providers
Occupational Therapy
OTs help children develop the skills they need for everyday activities.
For occupational therapy
- 1329 verified occupational therapy providers in Australia
- Listed across 277 suburbs
- Often funded via NDIS or Medicare (with a GP referral)
- Free to contact — EarlyBloom never charges families
Takes about a minute — no account needed.
About occupational therapy
Paediatric occupational therapists (OTs) help children take part in everyday activities - fine-motor skills like handwriting and using cutlery, sensory processing, self-care routines, coordination, and emotional regulation.
After an assessment, an OT builds a plan tailored to your child and often coaches families and educators on small environment and routine changes that make daily life easier.
Cost & funding
Occupational therapy is commonly funded through the NDIS (Capacity Building / Improved Daily Living) when it supports plan goals. Medicare may rebate a limited number of allied-health sessions per year via a GP care plan and referral.
Private health extras can contribute, and some services are available through schools. Eligibility and rebate amounts vary - check with your GP and the provider.
No providers listed yet for this service.
Related reading
Paediatric occupational therapist Australia: what they do
A paediatric occupational therapist Australia works with children on the everyday skills that school, home, and play demand — here is what to expect.
Medicare rebate paediatric therapy: a parent guide
How Medicare rebate paediatric therapy works in Australia — Better Access, the GP chronic condition plan, and the new M10 speech pathway explained.
NDIS early intervention funding Australia: a parent guide
How NDIS early intervention funding Australia works for kids under 9, what's covered, and how to access support — even without a formal diagnosis yet.
Frequently asked questions
What does a paediatric OT actually help with?
Common areas include handwriting and fine-motor skills, sensory sensitivities, daily routines (dressing, eating, sleep), coordination, and self-regulation.
Do we need a referral?
Not to see an OT privately. A GP referral and care plan are required only to access Medicare rebates or certain funded pathways.
Can OT be funded by the NDIS?
Yes, typically under Capacity Building / Improved Daily Living when it aligns with your child's plan goals.
How is OT different from physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy focuses on gross-motor movement and physical function; OT focuses on participation in everyday tasks, including fine-motor, sensory, and self-care skills.