Free Interpreting Service for Allied Health Professionals
Eligible allied health professionals in private practice can access free interpreters through the Translating and Interpreter Service (TIS National), providing access to telephone, on-site and video interpreting for free. To be eligible for FIS, you must provide private services in an approved allied health discipline within an allocated Local Government Area (LGA). Click here for more information on the LGAs and allied health disciplines. 

To access the Free Interpreting Service:

• You will need to register for a client code with TIS National and use the code when booking an interpreter. To apply, complete the application form. 
• If you need help with registering contact TIS on 1300 575 847 or email tis.freeinterpreting@homeaffairs.gov.au 
• To learn more, visit the TIS National info page, watch the video for allied health professionals or contact TIS National on 1300 575 847 or email tis.freeinterpreting@homeaffairs.gov.au 

Australian Government Department of Human Services
Occupational therapists must register with Medicare Australia to enable their clients to access Medicare rebates. This website provides current information to apply for a Medicare Provider Number, create and use an account and other related resources for Allied Health Professionals.

Mental Health Endorsement
OTA is currently completing a formal review of its mental health endorsement program. The goal of the review is to better align the program with mental health occupational therapy practice across a range of funding programs, including the Medicare Better Access and Eating Disorders programs, and to provide a more focused application process.

Allied Health Initiatives, Department of Human Services
Provided by the Australian Government, this website provides comprehensive information about the Medicare benefits that are available for certain services provided by eligible allied health professionals to people with chronic conditions and complex care needs who are being managed by a GP under an Allied Health Initiative (AHI) plan.

Helping Children with Autism Initiative
Part of the Australian Government’s $190 million Helping children with autism package, new Medicare items became available for eligible allied health professionals commencing in July 2008. These items were created in Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) for the early diagnosis and treatment of children with autism or any other pervasive developmental disorder (PDD).

Privacy for Individuals: Office of the Australian Information Commissioner – OAIC
Provided by the OAIC, this website provides information, resources and guidelines regarding the privacy of information for individuals and organisations.