Occupational therapy helps children build the fine motor, sensory and daily-living skills they need to take part in everyday activities at home, school and play. This guide explains what paediatric OT involves, how to know if your child might benefit, and how to choose the right provider in Melbourne. The page also features a shortlist of local clinics to help you start your search.
Wonder Kids OT is a Dandenong, VIC-based paediatric occupational therapy and speech pathology provider serving children aged 0–18. Offers clinic-based and mobile/home therapy, neuroaffirming, play-based programs for sensory processing, motor skills, ADHD, autism, and daily living skills. No NDIS registration, telehealth, or waitlist details explicitly stated.
Mobile paediatric Occupational Therapy service in inner-Melbourne suburbs offering individual and group sessions for children and adolescents, home/school/community-based, plus telehealth options and parent/educator education sessions. Currently taking 2026 intake enquiries.
Melbourne-based NDIS provider offering early childhood therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, allied health assistance, and referrals for dietetics, psychology and physiotherapy. Serves children across northern, south-east, inner-eastern and western Melbourne with immediate capacity; currently taking new referrals.
Melbourne-based paediatric occupational therapy clinic supporting children aged 0-17 with autism, ADHD, developmental delays, and sensory processing challenges. Offers assessments, professional reports, individual therapy, school holiday intensives, and telehealth services across multiple eastern suburbs locations.
Melbourne-based paediatric occupational therapy provided via home visits, plus NDIS Functional Capacity Assessments for adults and children Australia-wide, self- and plan-managed, no referral required.
Melbourne-based paediatric occupational therapy clinic supporting children aged 0-17 with autism, ADHD, dyspraxia, dyslexia, developmental delays and sensory processing challenges. Offers assessments, professional reports, individual therapy, school/kinder visits, telehealth, and multiple eastern suburbs locations.
Melbourne CBD multidisciplinary practice offering Speech Pathology, OT, Physiotherapy, Psychology, Dietetics, Allied Health Assistance, Positive Behaviour Support, and NDIS Support Coordination/Plan Management for children, including babies. NDIS-funded services mentioned; no explicit ages, telehealth, or waitlist details given.
Melbourne-based paediatric occupational therapy clinic supporting children aged 0-17 with autism, ADHD, sensory processing, motor skills, self-care, school readiness and emotional regulation. Offers assessments, professional reports, individual therapy and telehealth services across multiple eastern suburbs Melbourne locations.
Occupational therapy (OT) helps children develop the practical skills they need for daily life. For kids, an "occupation" simply means the everyday activities they need or want to do — getting dressed, holding a pencil, eating with cutlery, playing with friends, or coping with busy classrooms.
Paediatric occupational therapists commonly work on:
Therapy is usually play-based, so sessions often look like fun activities rather than formal exercises. A good OT also coaches parents and teachers so skills carry over into real life.
Every child develops at their own pace, but you may consider an assessment if your child:
If you have concerns, it's worth talking with your GP, paediatrician or maternal and child health nurse. This guide is general information only and not medical advice.
Paediatric OTs work with children from birth through the teenage years. Early support can be valuable, but it's never "too late" to start. Many Melbourne clinics see toddlers, primary-aged kids and adolescents, and some focus on particular ages or needs — so it's worth asking whether a provider suits your child's stage.
An initial session usually involves an assessment. The therapist will ask about your child's development, health history and the challenges you're noticing. They may observe your child playing or completing tasks, and sometimes use standardised assessment tools.
You'll typically leave with a picture of your child's strengths and areas for support, and a discussion about goals and a possible therapy plan. Bring along any reports (from your GP, paediatrician, school or previous therapists) and a list of your main concerns.
As a general guide, private paediatric OT sessions in Australia often range from around $180 to $220+ per hour, with assessments and detailed reports charged separately. The NDIS publishes price caps that registered providers work within, and these are updated regularly — so always confirm current fees directly with the clinic.
Under the NDIS, occupational therapy usually sits under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living. If your child has NDIS funding, ask the provider how they invoice and whether they charge in line with the NDIS Pricing Arrangements. Families may also access some support through Medicare (with a GP referral and care plan), private health extras, or state early-childhood services — eligibility varies, so check what applies to your situation.
Melbourne has clinics across the CBD and suburbs — from Dandenong and Mount Waverley to Essendon, Brunswick and Port Melbourne. This page features providers including Wonder Kids OT (Dandenong), Hope Kids OT (Mount Waverley, Burwood East and Wantirna), Bloom Healthcare (Melbourne CBD), The OT Group (Moonee Ponds) and others. When comparing options, look at:
Taking time to ask these questions helps you find a therapist who's the right fit — for your child and your family.
Or read the full occupational therapy guide, or browse all Melbourne providers.
You don't need a referral to book privately with most OT clinics. However, a referral may be required if you're accessing support through Medicare (via a GP care plan) or certain funding pathways. If your child is on the NDIS, therapy usually falls under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living. Check with your GP and the clinic about what's needed.
As a general guide, private paediatric OT sessions in Australia often range from around $180 to $220+ per hour, with assessments and reports charged separately. The NDIS sets price caps that registered providers work within, and these change over time. Always confirm current fees and what's included directly with your chosen provider.
Yes, occupational therapy is commonly funded under the NDIS Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living budget when it aligns with your child's plan goals. How it's invoiced can depend on whether your plan is NDIA-managed, plan-managed or self-managed. Ask the provider whether they're NDIS-registered and how they bill.
Occupational therapists in Australia must be registered with AHPRA (the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency), and you can verify registration on the AHPRA website. OT Australia is the peak professional body. It's also worth asking about their experience working specifically with children.
Waitlists vary widely between clinics and can change with demand, so there's no single answer. Some providers may see you within a few weeks, while others have longer waits. Always ask about current waitlist times for an initial assessment before booking, and consider contacting several clinics.