OTWaitlist · Direct answer
How long does NDIS funding for OT last?
NDIS funding for occupational therapy (OT) typically lasts for the duration of your child's NDIS plan, which is usually 12 months. Some plans run for longer periods (up to 3 years), depending on your child's circumstances and NDIA assessment. When your plan ends, you'll have a plan review meeting where goals are reassessed and new funding allocated for the next planning period.
Information last reviewed 2026-05-24. This page is not medical advice — speak with your GP, paediatrician, or paediatric OT for guidance specific to your child.
Full answer
Understanding your NDIS plan duration
Your child's NDIS plan usually runs for 12 months from the date it's approved. At the end of this period, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) will contact you to schedule a plan review. During this review, your child's needs, progress towards OT goals, and future support requirements are reassessed. A new plan is then created with updated funding allocations.
Some children receive longer plans (24 or 36 months) if the NDIA determines their circumstances are stable and unlikely to change significantly. This is more common for children with stable, long-term disabilities.
How OT goals are tracked across plans
Occupational therapists work with you to set specific, measurable goals within your NDIS plan—for example, improving self-care skills, fine motor development, or school participation. Your OT will document progress throughout the 12-month period through session notes and progress reports.
Before your plan review, ask your OT for a summary of progress made. Bring this to your review meeting with the NDIA planner. Goals that haven't been fully achieved can be carried forward into your next plan with adjusted funding if needed. New goals can also be added based on your child's development and changing needs.
Practical next steps
1. Check your current plan end date in your NDIS portal or contact your Local Area Coordinator (LAC). 2. About 3 months before your plan ends, request a progress report from your OT. 3. Prepare a list of goals your child has achieved and any ongoing needs for your review meeting. 4. Discuss with your OT whether the current frequency and duration of sessions (typically funded at $150–$200 per hour under 2025-26 NDIS Pricing Arrangements) are meeting your child's needs. 5. If you need support preparing for your review, your LAC can help.
If you're unsure whether your child is eligible for NDIS funding or have questions about your specific plan, contact the NDIA on 1800 800 110 or visit ndis.gov.au.
Find a paediatric OT near you
Search the OTWaitlist directory by suburb or clinic name.
Browse providers by state
Jump to a state directory to compare clinic availability across regions.
Related questions
- Cost & funding How much does paediatric OT cost in Australia? Read the answer →
- Cost & funding Does the NDIS pay for occupational therapy? Read the answer →
- Cost & funding How much does the NDIS pay per OT session? Read the answer →
- Cost & funding Can Medicare pay for paediatric occupational therapy? Read the answer →
- Cost & funding How do I claim OT on private health insurance? Read the answer →
Keep exploring
OTWaitlist provides general information about NDIS-aligned paediatric occupational therapy clinics. We're not a clinic and don't provide medical advice. Always speak directly with a qualified OT or GP about your child's specific needs.