How long does it take to get an OT appointment for my child?

Once your GP provides a referral, contact the occupational therapy service directly—either a private practice, community health service, or NDIS-registered provider. During the intake call (usually 10–15 minutes), you'll answer questions about your child's development, concerns, and any existing diagnoses. The service will then send paperwork, which includes consent forms, medical history, and sometimes questionnaires about your child's daily activities and participation.

Waiting times vary significantly by state and region. Metropolitan areas often have shorter waits (2–4 weeks), while rural and remote areas may take 8–12 weeks or longer. If you're accessing services through the NDIS, you'll need an approved plan first, which adds 4–8 weeks before therapy can begin. Medicare-funded services (via a GP referral for a chronic disease management plan or mental health plan) typically have shorter waits than fully private services.

Costs depend on your access pathway. Medicare rebates cover up to 10 sessions per year under a chronic disease management plan (you pay the gap after rebate). NDIS-funded therapy is covered within your plan allocation. Private services cost $80–$200+ per session, depending on the therapist's experience and location.

To speed up the process: have your GP referral ready before calling; ask about cancellation lists when you book; confirm all paperwork is complete before your intake call; and ask the service for a realistic timeline when you first contact them. If your child is under 3 and you're concerned about development, contact your state's early childhood intervention service—these often have faster access pathways. If you're waiting longer than 8 weeks and your child's needs are urgent, discuss this with your GP or paediatrician about alternative options.