Occupational Therapy and the NDIS
What NDIS occupational therapists do: daily living, functional capacity assessments, assistive technology, home modifications and sensory needs.
Occupational therapists, or OTs, help you do the everyday things that fill your day — dressing, cooking, getting around your home, joining in at school or work. On the NDIS, they're one of the most widely used allied health professionals, partly because their work touches so many parts of life. This guide explains what OTs actually do, what to expect from working with one, and how their support is…
What occupational therapists do
Daily living and independence
Functional capacity assessments
Assistive technology and home modifications
Sensory needs and everyday strategies
How OT is funded
Frequently asked questions
What does an occupational therapist help with?
OTs help you do everyday activities more independently or safely — personal care, cooking, getting around, school or work tasks, and managing routines. They also assess function, prescribe assistive technology, recommend home modifications, and support sensory needs. Their scope is broad because…
What is a functional capacity assessment?
It's a structured assessment, often done by an OT, of what you can do and where you need support across daily activities. It explains how your disability affects function in the language the NDIA understands, and can strengthen your case at a reassessment or when seeking specific supports.
Do I need an OT for assistive technology or home modifications?
Usually yes. For funded equipment and home changes, the NDIA generally wants an assessment and recommendation from a qualified professional, and OTs are central to this. They make sure the equipment or modification genuinely suits you, often trialling options before anything is funded.
Which budget pays for occupational therapy?
OT sessions are usually funded from Capacity Building, which builds skills and independence. Equipment and home modifications an OT recommends typically come from Capital, and some supports may draw on Core. All of it must be reasonable and necessary and related to your disability.
Can an OT and a physiotherapist both help me?
Yes, and they often do. OTs focus on daily activities and the environment, while physios focus on movement, strength and mobility, though their roles overlap around equipment. Many people see both, with the therapists coordinating so their work fits together towards your goals.
How many OT sessions will I get?
There's no set number — your OT recommends what's reasonable and necessary for your goals, and this is reflected in your plan's funding. It varies widely depending on your needs. If you're unsure how much your plan covers, check the plan and ask your planner, LAC or plan manager.