Let's Talk Support

21/05/2026

These proposed NDIS cuts are deeply concerning. Reducing capacity building and community participation supports will have a real impact on people’s independence, inclusion, and quality of life. Occupational therapy and community supports are not extras — they are essential.

We stand with the disability community and support the call to overturn these proposed cuts. Everyone deserves access to the supports they need to live meaningful and connected lives.

The NDIS Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill has just been introduced.

OTA is appalled by what’s in it and what it means.

From 1 October 2026, the Bill enables:
❌ A 10% cut to capacity building daily activity supports
❌ A 50% cut to social, civic and community participation supports

Capacity building supports – including occupational therapy – are essential for daily living, independence and participation in community life. Cutting them undermines the rights‑based, person‑centred foundations of the NDIS and will have a devastating impact on participants’ everyday lives.

Participation is central to everything occupational therapy aims to achieve. Slashing social, civic, and community participation supports risks isolating people with disability and eroding their fundamental right to inclusion.

OTA is calling on the Australian Government to:
➡️ Immediately overturn the 10% cut to capacity building supports
➡️ Immediately overturn the 50% cut to social, civic and community participation supports

OTA will continue to advocate strongly against any changes that limit access to evidence‑based therapy and meaningful participation under the NDIS.

While OTA’s Policy & Advocacy team is still unpacking the Bill, members can read what we know so far about the legislation in OTA Weekly today, and can join our Members Forum tomorrow for more of an update. Register here: https://bit.ly/4ucvjtr

Today, we are launching our No OTs, No NDIS campaign to fight back against major reforms and unconscionable cuts that reduce participant access to occupational therapy. We call on all members to sign up to this campaign to help drive the change our workforce needs: https://bit.ly/4uMAyQu

12/05/2026

Well done Tenambit Public School

01/05/2026

Working from home doesn’t always mean sitting at a desk inside four walls. Sometimes it looks like this — fresh air, ocean views, and a change of scenery that resets the mind and boosts productivity.

Giving staff the flexibility to work in different environments can make a real difference — not just in how we work, but how we feel. A simple shift in location can improve focus, reduce stress, and support overall wellbeing.

Because when people feel better, they work better.

❤️

23/04/2026

Recast: A Simple Way to Support Your Child's Language Growth

Have you heard of "recasting"? It's one of the most powerful language strategies we use at Northern Star Supports, and you can use it at home too.

Recasting means repeating what your child says, but changing the format. For example:

Child: "Baby crying"
You: "Yes, is she crying?"

By recasting, you're giving your child exposure to new language patterns and different ways of saying things, without directly correcting them. It feels natural and keeps the conversation flowing.

This simple technique helps children develop language skills in a warm, supportive way. It's one of the 8 Ways of Learning we use in our therapy and playgroups.

Want to learn more about how we support language development? Get in touch with our team today.

Northern Star Supports: Supporting families, one conversation at a time.

22/04/2026

Only ONE more week to go until Tiny Tykes Supported Playgroup is back! 🎉 We can’t wait to welcome our families back for a fun-filled term of play, connection and learning. It’s the perfect space for little ones to explore, make friends and build confidence—while parents and carers connect and feel supported too 💛
📍 Tenambit Community Hall
🗓 Thursdays
⏰ 10:00 – 11:30am
💰 FREE including fruit break

Come along for a relaxed, welcoming environment with plenty of play-based activities, parenting support, laughter and community vibes. Whether you’re new or returning, we’d love to see you there!

Tag a friend who should join you 👇

14/04/2026

14/4/2026 - What a fun time we had at Singleton Neighbourhood Centre with Shelly and the team from Upcycle Newcastle making denim earrings and flowers. We had the BEST time. Big shout out to Rob from Singleton Public Library for organising.

14/04/2026

10/4/2026 - off to Cessnock City Council for photo frame making with the fabulous Amy. We then walked around the library on a scavenger hunt for movie characters!!!

14/04/2026

9/4/2026 - Holiday Programs have begun
at LTS. Thank you Singleton Public Library for the awesome sensory play workshop.
We also LOVED finding the Easter eggs. We finished with a Teddy Bears picnic.

09/04/2026

Walk for Autism: We are now a team of 2 raised $206/$1500!! Keep joining and donating. Thank you 💙💙💙💙💙

24/03/2026

PLEASE READ
If an Invisible Disabilities Australia Card Holder has asked you to scan the QR Code on their card it means they need your support. Please ask them if there is any support they need. PLEASE DO NOT ASK THEM ABOUT THEIR MEDICAL CONDITION
You have an obligation to support them under The United Nations Convention – Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

For more information or to order an invisible Disabilities Australian card ⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️

National Access Card & Lanyard PLEASE READ If an Invisible Disabilities Australia Card Holder has asked you to scan the QR Code on their card it means they need your support. Please ask them if there is any support they need. PLEASE DO NOT ASK THEM ABOUT THEIR MEDICAL CONDITION You have an obligatio...

26/12/2025

Update on art and music therapy 🎨🎶🎶

💡With the recent pricing update announced by the NDIA for Art and Music therapy, now is a good time to share our latest blog on these invaluable therapies.
🔗 https://www.plantracker.com.au/has-the-ndis-updated-pricing-for-art-and-music-therapy/