Governance

Occupational Therapy Australia is governed by a Board of Directors elected by members and or through the Nominations Committee. There can be up to ten Board Directors, which includes provision for external non-member and non-occupational therapists as directors. 

• Occupational Therapy Australia Constitution (PDF, 1.65 MB)
• Occupational Therapy Australia By-Laws (PDF, 540 KB)
• Code of Conduct (PDF, 310 KB)

Governance Review 2024

During 2024, OTA is undertaking a significant Constitutional Review, followed by a new Board charter, Bylaws and Code of Conduct. We have engaged a legal firm Governology to support the Constitutional Review process with the aim that it is presented to members at the November AGM 2024 for member vote. 

What is the Constitution?

The Constitution is a guiding document that outlines the rules and process for how Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA)  structures our governance for example the Board and committees and importantly the eligibility for membership and member and their rights. The Constitution determines our financial and legal structure and ensures that OTA as an association maintains our compliance and legal obligations. 

Why do we need to review the Constitution?

Our last Constitution was passed in 2016 - nearly 8 years ago. A lot has changed in that time, including legislation around associations, the association sector itself and the allied health sector, so it is good practice to review the Constitution to make sure it is supporting the association and meeting our needs now and into the future.

How can members be involved?

A discussion paper that outlines the proposed changes was shared with members and information webinars were held in July. You can read the briefing paper here. 

Please download and view the Draft Constitution.

The consultation phase for the draft will be in place from Friday 6 September until Friday 20 September.

Two Member information sessions will be held:

• Tuesday 17 September 5pm – 6pm AEST
• Thursday 19 September 1pm – 2pm AEST

To register to attend and submit questions prior to the session click here.

Member are invited to provide written feedback to info@otaus.com.au.

Any additional questions can be emailed directly to info@otaus.com.au Attn Constitution Review.

A resolution to adopt the new Constitution will be available for members vote at the AGM on Tuesday 19 November 2024.

What is the proposed timeline?

• July – Discussion Paper Consultation with members
• September – First draft circulated for member feedback
• October – Final version provided to Members
• November – Resolution is proposed Members vote at AGM

After the motion, the Bylaws will be finalised as well as a list of transitional rules that help map the change from old Constitution to new Constitution.

For more information email info@otaus.com.au.

Code of Ethics

The ethos of the occupational therapy profession and its practice requires its members to “discharge their duties and responsibilities, at all times, in a manner which professionally, ethically and morally compromises no individual with whom they have professional contact, irrespective of that person’s position, situation or condition in society”.

The Code of Ethics (PDF, 592 KB) is founded on the bio-ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, honesty, veracity, confidentiality, justice, respect and autonomy.

Strategic Plans

Our future strategy and approach have been developed in close collaboration with our members and a wide range of friends, supporters, partners, and stakeholders. Through deep listening and courageous conversations, we have honoured our history and achievements while paving the way for a future that is responsive to the progress and prominence of occupational therapy as a leading and growing allied health profession.