Developmental delay support · Suburb directory
7 Listed Paediatric Occupational Therapy Clinics for Developmental delay in SA (2026)
Looking for an occupational therapist in SA who supports children with developmental delay? Families in South Australia often find it helpful to work with an OT who can assess how your child is progressing with everyday skills like self-care, play, and coordination. Many families access services through NDIS funding, though eligibility varies. We've listed 7 providers in this area whose services overlap with developmental delay support. Remember to confirm directly with each clinic about their specific experience, availability, and how they can support your child's needs.
As of June 2026, OTWaitlist lists 7 paediatric occupational therapy clinics in SA whose listed services overlap with developmental delay; none are currently listed as taking new clients, and 2 list NDIS funding. Availability is self-reported and can change — confirm directly with the clinic.
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.
| Clinic | Status | Reported wait | NDIS | Telehealth | Home visits | Ages | Last checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adelaide Night and Day Family Therapy | Status unconfirmed | — | Yes | — | — | children | — |
| Connect Allied Health | Status unconfirmed | — | — | — | — | children | — |
| Glenelg Allied Health | Currently full | — | — | — | — | children | 1 week ago |
| Health2GO | Status unconfirmed | — | — | — | — | 0–6 | — |
| Moveability | Status unconfirmed | — | — | — | — | children | — |
| Nurtured Paediatrics | Status unconfirmed | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Resilient Kidz | Status unconfirmed | — | Yes | — | — | children, teenagers | — |
Providers in Across SA supporting developmental delay
- Adelaide Night and Day Family Therapy SA Status unconfirmed Lists: Fine motor
- Connect Allied Health SA Status unconfirmed Lists: Fine motor
- Glenelg Allied Health SA Status unconfirmed Lists: Fine motor
- Health2GO SA Status unconfirmed Lists: Fine motor
- Moveability SA Status unconfirmed Lists: Fine motor
- Nurtured Paediatrics SA Status unconfirmed Lists: Early intervention
- Resilient Kidz SA Status unconfirmed Lists: Fine motor
How paediatric OT helps children with developmental delay in SA
How paediatric OT helps children with developmental delay in South Australia (SA)
In South Australia, children with developmental delay can access occupational therapy (OT) through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). From 2025-26, NDIS participants receive individualised funding based on their goals and support needs. Families may also access OT through Medicare via referral from a GP, or privately through SA Health services.
Paediatric OT addresses developmental delay by working with children on everyday skills—such as self-care, play, fine and gross motor coordination, and sensory processing. Therapists use play-based activities tailored to each child's developmental stage and interests. OT cannot diagnose conditions like autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder; however, therapists can identify functional difficulties and recommend strategies to support participation in daily activities.
In SA, families typically engage OT support by obtaining a GP referral for Medicare-funded sessions, applying for NDIS funding if eligible, or arranging private therapy through clinics. School-based OT is also available through some SA schools.
When contacting clinics, ask specifically: What is your experience with developmental delay in this age group? How do you involve families in goal-setting? Can you clarify whether assessment includes functional observation or standardised testing? Do you provide strategies for home and school settings? What is your communication process with other professionals involved in the child's care?
About Developmental Delay
Developmental delay describes when a child has not yet reached one or more developmental milestones in the expected timeframe. It is a description, not a single diagnosis.
Common questions from Across SA families
How do occupational therapists in SA approach developmental delay?
Local OTs typically start with an assessment to understand your child's current skills and what areas need support. They look at everyday activities like dressing, eating, playing, and coordination. Rather than focusing only on the delay itself, they work with you to build strategies and activities that help your child develop skills at their own pace. Most therapists involve parents in sessions so you can continue supporting progress at home.
What questions should I ask when I contact a clinic about developmental delay support?
Ask about their experience with children at your child's age and developmental stage. Find out whether they offer parent coaching or home-based strategies. Ask how they measure progress and how often they review goals. Check if they bulk-bill or accept NDIS plans, and what their current waiting times are. Also ask whether they work with other professionals like speech pathologists or physiotherapists if your child needs coordinated care.
Can I access NDIS funding for my child's occupational therapy for developmental delay?
NDIS funding eligibility depends on your child's circumstances and whether they meet the scheme's criteria. If your child has an NDIS plan, occupational therapy is often included as a support. Contact the NDIS directly or speak with your local area coordinator to understand your options. Many SA clinics can discuss NDIS funding when you call, and some can help with the planning process. Your GP or paediatrician can also provide guidance.
What early signs might suggest my child needs occupational therapy assessment?
Parents often notice delays in skills like sitting up, crawling, walking, or using hands to pick up toys. You might see difficulty with self-care like feeding or dressing, or challenges with play and coordination. Some children seem less interested in exploring their environment or connecting with others. If you're concerned about your child's development compared to other children their age, it's worth discussing with your GP or paediatrician, who can refer to an OT if appropriate.
What happens during an occupational therapy assessment for developmental delay?
The therapist will usually chat with you about your child's history and what you've noticed. They'll observe your child playing and attempting everyday activities to see what they can do and where they're struggling. They might use standardised assessments to measure skills. The assessment helps identify your child's strengths and areas for development. Afterwards, the therapist discusses findings with you and creates a plan with goals and strategies tailored to your child and family.
Suburbs in SA with developmental delay support
Suburbs in SA with developmental delay support
Browse other conditions in Across SA
NDIS funding
Using NDIS funding for OT in SA
If your child has an NDIS plan, occupational therapy (OT) is often funded as part of your supports. Understanding your options can help you access the services you need.
Plan Types
You may have a self-managed plan (you handle payments), plan-managed (a provider manages it), or NDIA-managed (the NDIS manages it). Each works differently, so check your plan documents to see which applies to you.
Budget Categories
OT typically falls under "Supports for Daily Living" or "Core Supports" in your plan. Your plan letter will show your allocated budget.
Confirming Clinic Acceptance
Before booking, contact the OT clinic directly and ask: "Do you accept [your plan type]?" They'll confirm whether they can work with your funding arrangement.
If you're unsure about your plan details, contact the NDIS or speak with your local coordinator.