15_007_0118_1_3
Early Childhood Supports - Therapy Assistant - Level 1

Line Item Description

This support item is located within the NDIS Capacity Building support category, under Early Childhood Supports (Category 15).

It funds services delivered by a Therapy Assistant (Level 1) to support children under the age of seven who are participating in the Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) approach. The Therapy Assistant works under the direct supervision of a qualified Early Childhood Intervention Professional (e.g., Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Speech Pathologist).

Key Outcomes and Activities:

Implementation of Therapy Plans: The primary role is to implement specific, planned activities and programs that have been developed and delegated by the supervising qualified therapist.

Capacity Building: The assistant works with the child, their family, and other carers to embed therapeutic strategies into the child's daily routines and natural environments (e.g., home, childcare, community settings).

Focus on Routines: Activities are practical and may include structured play, exercises, and practice of skills focused on the child's NDIS goals, often targeting communication, movement, or self-care.

Direct Supervision: A Level 1 Assistant typically requires frequent, direct, and hands-on supervision from the qualified therapist to ensure the quality and safety of the support provided. This level of supervision and delegation is reflected in the pricing structure.

Data Collection: The assistant is responsible for gathering data and reporting back to the supervising therapist on the child’s engagement, progress, and any concerns.

Professional Requirement: This support must be delivered by a Therapy Assistant working under the supervision of an accredited ECI professional. A Level 1 Assistant typically holds a lower-level qualification (e.g., Certificate III or IV) or has less experience compared to a Level 2 Assistant.

Level 1 Therapy Assistants can only deliver support under the direct supervision of a therapist.

In these cases, it is appropriate for the provider to bill for the time spent by both the therapist and the therapy assistant. This arrangement can represent value for money for the participant compared to the alternative of all supports being delivered by the supervising therapists.