Stronger Together – OT Australia on Workforce Pressure, Advocacy, and the Road Ahead

Cathy Love is joined by Michelle Oliver, Chief Occupational Therapist at Occupational Therapy Australia, for a grounded conversation about the realities facing occupational therapists and Allied Health professionals across workforce, policy, and business.

Michelle shares what OT Australia is seeing on the ground, including mounting pressure on Allied Health businesses, the ongoing challenges of NDIS pricing and access, and why sustained relationship-building with government is critical. The conversation also explores how OT Australia is responding through advocacy, professional practice frameworks, and a significantly expanded approach to learning and development — all under the banner of being Stronger Together.

This episode is essential listening for OTs, Allied Health Business Owners, and leaders navigating reform, sustainability concerns, and the need for a clearer, more unified professional voice.

Topics covered on workforce pressure, advocacy, NDIS pricing, and professional development::

1. Workforce & sustainability
2. The increasing pressure on occupational therapists, including private practice viability, rapid workforce growth, and the tension between values-driven care and commercial realities.
3. Advocacy & influence
4. Why OT Australia is prioritising stronger relationships with ministers and departments, and working collaboratively through ARPA to strengthen allied health’s voice at a national level.
5. NDIS pricing & access
6. Reframing travel and service costs as issues of access rather than waste, and unpacking what provider survey results reveal about sustainability risks.
7. Learning, development & capability
8. How OT Australia’s capability frameworks and flexible CPD offerings are evolving to better support a younger, growing workforce.

Related Episodes

1. Episode 379: The Bill, the Rules, and the Realities of NDIS in 2026 with Muriel Cummins

P.S. Need a little extra support on your business journey? Whether you’re navigating challenges or looking to reach new goals, we’re here to support your growth.

Book a Complimentary Power Call with us, and let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your vision for your Allied Health business.

Connect with Nacre Consulting:

1. Let’s connect on Instagram
2. Follow us on Facebook
3. Let’s connect on LinkedIn
4. Join our Facebook Group online community

More about The Allied Health Business Brilliance Podcast:

The Allied Health Business Brilliance podcast (previously known as Private Practice Made Perfect) powered by Nacre Consulting features authentic conversations that offer real-life stories and expert perspectives for Australian Allied Health Business Owners. Cathy Love, our engaging host, gathers wisdom from Allied Health professionals and industry supporters alike.

We dive into the real experiences of running and growing Allied Health businesses in Australia, revealing both the rewards and the inevitable challenges along the way. It’s raw, sometimes vulnerable, but always valuable. Join us and stay tuned to keep up with every inspiring story and lesson shared.