Frequently Asked .

You can self-refer for speech pathology services, so you do not need a referral from a GP or other professional. Simply complete our online referral form to get started.

If you would like to claim a Medicare rebate under a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP) or M10 pathway, a referral from a GP, consultant physician or specialist is required.

You can complete our online referral form here.

It only takes a few minutes to complete.

Yes. There is both onsite and street parking available.

Assessment sessions are usually 60 minutes, and therapy sessions are usually 45 minutes.

Time outside of sessions is used for documentation, preparation of resources, and communication with families and other professionals. This helps ensure your child’s therapy is thoughtfully planned and personalised to their needs.

Yes.

All initial assessments are completed at our clinic. After this, sessions may take place at the clinic, school, kindergarten, or childcare, depending on your child’s needs and what is discussed with your therapist.

We do not currently offer ongoing home visits.Travel fees may apply for visits outside the clinic.

We specialise in supporting children aged 2 to 12 years.

If your child is outside this age range, please feel free to contact us and we can discuss suitable options.

The first session is all about getting to know your child and your family. We spend time talking with you about your child’s communication, strengths, interests, and anything you would like us to know.

We use play, observation, and simple activities to learn about how your child communicates and interacts in ways that feel natural and comfortable for them. We know that children communicate best when they feel safe, respected, and understood, so building trust and connection is our main focus in this first session.

At the end of the session, we will talk with you about what we noticed and what supports may be helpful moving forward. You will also receive a written summary report with suggested goals and recommendations.

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

We support children with self-managed and plan-managed NDIS funding.

Our speech pathologists can assist with your child’s NDIS access request by providing a comprehensive assessment and report outlining their communication needs and how these impact participation in everyday life.

To find out more about NDIS eligibility and the application process, you can contact the NDIS on 1800 800 110, visit www.ndis.gov.au or speak with a member of our team.

Medicare

There are several Medicare programs that may help children access speech pathology services. Your GP can help determine which option is most appropriate for your child.

GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP)

(previously known as a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan)

How does it work?

  • Your child must have a complex or chronic condition likely to persist for 6 months or more (which may include communication needs).
  • Requires a GP to prepare a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP).
  • Allows access to up to five Medicare-rebated allied health sessions each calendar year. These sessions can be used just for speech pathology, or shared between different allied health services, depending on your child’s needs.
  • There are no specific age restrictions.
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service users are eligible for an additional 5 sessions per year under the Allied Health Follow Up Services.
  • The current Medicare rebate is $61.80 per session (as at 16 February 2026).

M10 – Complex Neurodevelopmental Conditions and Eligible Disabilities

How does it work?

    • Has specific eligibility criteria, including certain complex neurodevelopmental conditions and eligible disabilities. From 1 March 2026, eligibility expanded to include stuttering, speech sound disorders, and cleft lip and/or palate.
    • Requires a referral from a GP, consultant physician, or specialist.
    • Does not require a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP); however, a Treatment and Management Plan must be prepared by the referring medical practitioner.
    • Includes a lifetime cap of eight assessment services and 20 treatment services, available up to age 25.
    • The current Medicare rebate is $87.25 per session (as at 16 February 2026).

Can people access both M10 and GPCCMP items?

Yes, but not for the same session on the same day.

If a child or young person meets eligibility for both M10 and GPCCMP, either pathway may be used to access speech pathology services. Item numbers and rebate amounts differ between the two programs.

An eligible child or young person referred under M10 can use these services at any time until they turn 25. If they also have a GPCCMP, they may access up to five Medicare-rebated allied health sessions per calendar year under that plan, subject to the rules and service limits of each program.

Private Health Insurance

If you have extras cover under private health insurance, you may be eligible for rebates on assessments and therapy sessions. The rebate and coverage depend on your specific policy — contact your health fund for details.

Initial assessment – item number 320

Therapy session – item number 350

WE'RE Moving

We’re so excited to share that Orchard Therapy will be relocating to our brand-new home from Monday, 14 July 2025.

Our beautiful new clinic has been thoughtfully designed with children and families in mind — and we can’t wait to welcome you into the space!