What to do while you’re on a waiting list

Many regional communities including Mackay have a high demand for paediatric allied health services and a limited number of clinicians available to provide support. This means that many families are experiencing longer wait times before accessing therapy services.

The good news is that there are many free Australian and international resources available to help support your child's development while waiting for their first appointment.

The following resources may be helpful depending on the type of support your child requires.

My child is waiting for Occupational Therapy:

• Move and Play’s Therapy Groups.

Keep an eye on our social media pages for our current group sessions. Every term we run a variety of groups for all ages. If your child has NDIS funding they can ask to be placed on the list to be contacted about group therapy options for gross motor, social skills or speech skills.

• The OT Toolbox

This is a comprehensive website developed by occupational therapists, providing practical activities and strategies to support fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-care skills, emotional regulation, and participation in everyday activities.

Website: TheottoolboxThe OT Toolbox- Occupational Therapy Activities and Resources

• Podcast: Pop Culture Parenting

A neurodevelopmental paediatrician and a father have come together to discuss the latest evidence for parenting and neurodiversity in a fun and accessible way.

Website: SpotifyPop Culture Parenting

• Raising Children Network

This is a website with evidence-based information for Australian parents on child development, behaviour, learning, wellbeing, and daily living skills.

Website: Raisingchildrenraisingchildren.net.au

• Good Inside.

This Book by Becky Kennedy provides advice on raising children in the modern world and provides strategies to cope with the challenges of parenting.

• Community Play Opportunities

Local playgrounds, beaches, parks, and community events provide valuable opportunities for children to develop motor skills, social skills, confidence, and independence through play.

My child is waiting for Physiotherapy:

• Active for Life

This website provides ideas and resources to help children develop fundamental movement skills, physical literacy, confidence, and enjoyment of physical activity.

Website: Activeforlifeactiveforlife.com

• Play On! Sport Vouchers

This is a Queensland Government initiative that provides eligible children aged 5–17 years with a $200 voucher to help cover the costs of participating in sport and active recreation programs.

Website: QldPlay On! Sports Vouchers

• SwimStart Vouchers

Eligible children aged 0–4 years can access vouchers of up to $150 to assist with the cost of learn-to-swim lessons through registered SwimStart providers.

Website: QldSwimStart

• Cosmic Kids Yoga

A fun, engaging online program that combines storytelling, movement, yoga, mindfulness, balance, and coordination activities for children.

Website: CosmickidsCosmic Kids Yoga | The Home of Positive Screen Time

• Ready Steady Go Kids

An introductory multi-sport program designed to develop fundamental movement skills such as running, jumping, throwing, catching, kicking, and balancing.

Website: ReadysteadygokidsReady Steady Go Kids - Australia's largest and most reputable multi-sport and exercise program for children (aged 1.5-6 years)

• Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Complex

Offers swimming lessons, aquatic activities, and recreation programs that support physical development, fitness, and participation.

Website: QldMackay Regional Council

• Mackay Indoor Sports Arena

Provides opportunities for children to participate in team sports, develop coordination and fitness, and build social connections.

Website: Mackayindoorsportsmackayindoorsports.com.au



My Child is Waiting for Speech Therapy:

• Speech Pathology Australia

The national peak body for speech pathologists in Australia. Families can access information about communication development, speech and language disorders, literacy, feeding, and what to expect when seeing a speech pathologist.

Website: OrgHome | Speech Pathology Australia

• Raising Children Network

Provides practical information and activities to support communication, language development, literacy, and social interaction.

Website: Raisingchildrenraisingchildren.net.au

• Mackay Regional Libraries

Local libraries regularly offer story time sessions, sensory activities, school holiday programs, and community events that support learning, social engagement, and communication development.

Website: Qldmackay.qld.gov.au/libraries

My Child is waiting for NDIS funding:

• GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (CCMP)

A GP Chronic Condition Management Plan may help families access subsidised allied health services while waiting for NDIS funding or therapy services. Speak with your GP to determine whether your child is eligible.

Website: EarlyyearshubGP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GP CCMP)

• Reimagine Australia – Helpful Tools and Resources

This website provides practical tools, information, and resources to support children with developmental concerns and their families.

Website: OrgHelpful tools and resources - Reimagine Australia

• NDIS Early Connections

Information about accessing NDIS supports, services, and community resources for children younger than 9 years who may benefit from early intervention.

Website: Ndisourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/early-childhoo...

• Relationships Australia Queensland – Families

This service offers family support services, parenting programs, counselling, and resources to support the wellbeing of the entire family.

Website: OrgFamily Support Archives - Relationships Australia Queensland

• Thrivary

An online platform providing evidence-based information, resources, and support for parents of children with disability, developmental delay, or additional support needs.

Website: ThrivaryThrivary | Early Childhood Development



Being placed on a waitlist is the first step towards supporting your child’s development. We hope the resources in this guide provide some practical ideas and support while you wait, helping your child continue to learn, grow, and participate in everyday activities.