15_008_0118_1_3
Early Childhood Supports - Therapy Assistant - Level 2

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 2) to support children under the age of seven who are participating in the Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) approach. The Therapy Assistant works under the direction and indirect 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.

Complex Tasks: A Level 2 Assistant is typically capable of undertaking more complex tasks than a Level 1 Assistant due to their higher level of qualification, experience, and independence.

Reduced Supervision: Due to their experience and training, a Level 2 Assistant requires less direct supervision than a Level 1 Assistant. The supervision is often indirect, with regular review and consultation, allowing for greater independence in service delivery.

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). This is crucial to building the family's capacity.

Data Collection and Reporting: Responsible for accurately gathering data on the child’s response and progress, and reporting back to the supervising therapist.

Professional Requirement: This support must be delivered by a Therapy Assistant working under the supervision of an accredited ECI professional. A Level 2 Assistant typically holds a higher-level qualification (e.g., relevant Diploma or degree not qualifying them as a professional) or has significant experience compared to a Level 1 Assistant.

Level 2 Therapy Assistants can deliver supports under indirect supervision but may require specific training in the needs of the participant from the therapist before they take responsibility for the delivery of the therapy.

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.