How much does paediatric OT cost in Australia?

NDIS funding

If your child has an NDIS plan, occupational therapy is funded at the 2025–26 rate of $193.99 per hour under Therapeutic Supports. Your plan must include therapy supports in the Capacity Building budget. Sessions are typically billed in 15-minute increments. Additional costs may include travel time ($48.50 per 15 minutes), non-face-to-face activities like report writing ($48.50 per 15 minutes), and formal assessment reports. Check your plan letter to understand what's covered and whether travel is included separately.

Private fees (non-NDIS)

Private paediatric OT typically costs $150–$220 per hour, varying by therapist experience, qualifications, and location. Metropolitan clinics (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) usually charge more than regional areas. Initial consultations may cost the same or slightly more. Most private therapists require payment at the time of appointment. Some offer payment plans for assessment reports, which can cost $800–$2,000 depending on complexity.

Medicare rebates

Medicare rebates are available if your child is referred by a GP or paediatrician under a Chronic Disease Management Plan or Team Care Arrangement. The Medicare rebate (around $60–$80 per session under item 81325) reduces out-of-pocket costs, but you'll still pay the gap between the therapist's full fee and the rebate. Not all occupational therapists bulk-bill Medicare — ask when booking. Rebates are capped at a limited number of sessions per year.

Factors affecting cost

Location: Sydney and Melbourne clinics typically charge $180–$220 per hour; regional Queensland or Tasmania may be $150–$180. Therapist qualifications: Additional certifications or specialisations (sensory integration, autism-specific training) may increase fees. Session length: Standard sessions are 45–60 minutes, but initial assessments often run 60–90 minutes. Appointment setting: Home visits and school visits may include travel charges.

Finding affordable options

Check if your child qualifies for NDIS funding by contacting the NDIS on 1800 800 110 or speaking with your GP. If considering private therapy, ask therapists about their fees, whether they bulk-bill Medicare, cancellation policies, and payment plans for assessments. Some community health services offer lower-cost or bulk-billed OT but have longer waitlists.

OTWaitlist shows paediatric OT clinics across Australia that are listed as taking new clients, including in Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, and Adelaide. Always confirm current fees, funding arrangements, and availability directly with providers.

<strong>Disclaimer:</strong> Cost information is based on typical ranges and 2025–26 NDIS pricing. OTWaitlist does not set clinic fees or guarantee pricing. Confirm all costs with your chosen provider before booking.