Australia’s pioneering paediatric occupational therapy provider, Occupational Therapy
for Children (OTFC), has announced plans to open two new clinics every year to meet the surging
demand nationwide for specialist paediatric therapy, following its client base doubling over the last two
years.
This commitment will result in OTFC having 50 clinical spaces servicing 300 children daily by the end of
this year, growing to 70 clinical spaces by 2029, reaching more than 500 children across Australia daily.
Chief Executive, Michelle Mennillo says the company’s recent growth and commitment to expansion
stems not just from general demand but primarily from its innovative and outcomes-driven approach to
paediatric therapy.
“We do occupational therapy differently. Better.”
With phenomenal client feedback, OTFC has an industry-leading Net Promoter Score of 73-77,
outperforming global brands like Apple regarding satisfaction and trust.
“Our recent growth affirms that our model is working, and more importantly, that it’s making a real
difference in the lives of families. It gives us the confidence to scale boldly, invest in innovation, and
double down on client-first services that not only meet demand but drive sustainable business growth,”
she said.
OTFC’s key point of difference starts with their state-of-the-art, purpose-built clinics that support Ayres
Sensory Integration Therapy. This internationally recognised, evidence-based approach helps young
people build essential life skills and confidence through movement, sensory play, creativity, and
emotional support. It blends physical development with mental well-being, creating a holistic path for
them to grow and connect. However, the piece that sets OTFC apart is that they work at the
intersection of sensory processing, functional skill development, and mental health support. This unique
combination allows OTFC to deliver therapy that not only builds physical capabilities but also addresses
the emotional challenges many young people face.
“This is where the magic happens,” said Ms Mennillo.
Each new clinic represents a $1 million investment designed to provide an engaging platform to deliver
effective therapy for young people with: autism; learning difficulties; and mental health challenges like
anxiety, low self-esteem, disconnection, lack of motivation and feelings of being overwhelmed.
“We’ve designed our clinics to be places of possibility,” she adds. “Every swing, every climbing wall,
every carefully designed space encourages young people to explore, take risks, and develop the skills
they need to thrive.”
For interviews and/or media enquires contact littlelion PR:
Gabrielle Leonello | 0425 554 454 | gabrielle@littlelion.com.au
Jasmine La Fontaine | 0478 044 652 | jasmine@littlelion.com.auOTFC also invests significantly in its team, with every OT undergoing specialist professional
development in Ayres Sensory Integration Therapy and mental health training—fully funded by OTFC,
making their OTs among the most sought-after in the country.
“Exceptional service starts with exceptional people—and that’s why we invest deeply in our team. While
we operate with a growth-oriented, corporate mindset, our foundation remains rooted in family values.
We’ve built comprehensive development, training, and mentorship programs designed to cultivate
outstanding professionals and foster a culture of excellence at every level of our organisation,” said Ms
Mennillo.
While many providers have long waitlists, OTFC has chosen a different path.
“When families reach out for help, they need support now. That’s why we’re investing in growth—
expanding our clinics, hiring and training more therapists, and broadening our services to include clinic
and community-based therapeutic interventions. No young person should be left waiting for the care
they need,” Ms Mennillo said.
Unlike generalist providers, OTFC is also laser-focused on this one sector of the market.
"Our expertise is in working with young people. We’re not trying to be all things to all people. We deliver
occupational therapy across the lifespan, but where we shine as clinicians is by focusing on early
intervention.
This specialisation allows the organisation to deliver highly targeted therapy that integrates seamlessly
with a young person’s broader support such as educators, caregivers, families, and medical
professionals—to create the best possible outcomes,” Ms Mennillo said.
These collaborations are a core part of OTFC’s commitment to holistic care. Having also worked with
multiple schools and more recently incorporating a consulting paediatrician rooms at their Melbourne-
based clinic in Moorabbin, OTFC also offers an extensive referral network to ensure families receive the
support they need to bridge the gap between clinical therapy, education, and daily life at what can be a
challenging time for families when they embark on this journey for their young person.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and having just hit a milestone of 10,000 clients, OTFC is now
focused on reaching the estimated 1.5 million young people in Australia who require occupational
therapy with their commitment to build more clinics and employ more occupational therapists to deliver
care within them and in the community.
“We know what we offer is unique—and have the outcomes to prove it changes lives. While our long-
term vision is to share our evidence-based model of care with families worldwide, our current focus is
clear: to continue delivering exceptional support to Australian families right where it’s needed most.
Every young person deserves the chance to live their best life, no matter their challenges. Our mission
is to make that possible—one assessment, one therapy session, one clinic, and one life-changing
moment at a time. And we do it by disguising therapy in something every young person understands:
play,” said Ms Mennillo.
For more information, visit Occupational Therapy for Children: https://otfcgroup.com.au/.
About us:
FACT SHEET
Bios
Michelle Mennillo Chief Executive
Dino Mennillo National Director
Media Approved Assets
● Images, headshots, BRoll
● https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/gsax5kx8toh6uu0wvngyi/ABbqaXGRwGahEHFenhn32
5I?rlkey=x228ph483gy6ps1xs86kfenk4&st=oia2st2g&dl=0
Connect With Us
● Website: www.otfcgroup.com.au
● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/otfcgroup
● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/otfcgroup
● YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OccupationalTherapyForyoung people
● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/occupational-therapy-for-young people-pty-ltd-
otfc/
Additional Info
● Growth snapshot, about schools, OTFC’s points of difference, industry context
○ https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/84to1vpdbc66e2fk4tgjg/Additional-info-fact-
sheet.pdf?rlkey=0uzimrlnq4l34uquzhoop35hn&st=ik8u8tbd&dl=0
