Update on Art and Music Therapy in the NDIS: Providers

A few months ago, we shared an update through a blog post about the pending review into NDIS funding for art and music therapy. That review is now complete. Dr Stephen Duckett’s independent report has been released, and the NDIA has accepted all of the recommendations in full. 

For providers who provide supports to the 13,400 participants using art or music therapy, the findings bring both opportunities and challenges. Here’s what you need to know. 

What the review found 

The report confirmed that art and music therapy, when provided by qualified therapists, can be effective and beneficial for some people with disability. While research in this area is still limited, there is growing evidence that these therapies can support participants to achieve their goals. They noted that limited evidence is not the same as no evidence. 

It’s also important to understand the difference between therapy and activities: 

• Art and music therapy: provided by a qualified therapist using evidence-based practices to help participants work towards their goals. 

• Art and music activities: for leisure, recreation, or social interaction, even if facilitated by a therapist, that are not goal-directed or evidence-based. 

This distinction is critical for providers. Only art and music therapy can be invoiced under therapy supports. Activities for recreation or social engagement fall under other funding categories, such as community and social participation. 

What’s changing with pricing 

One of the biggest issues has been the price limit for these supports. Late last year, the NDIA announced a reduction to $67.56 per hour, which caused significant concern among providers. That decision was put on hold until the review was finished. 

Now, the recommendation is to set the rate at $156.16 per hour. This matches the counselling rate. It’s lower than the previous $193.99 rate but much higher than the original $67.56 proposal. 

While the lower price limit may affect revenue for providers, the positive outcome is that art and music therapy is confirmed as a therapy support, not just a community or social activity. 

What this means for providers 

For providers, there are several important changes and considerations to be aware of: 

• Eligibility and invoicing: Only qualified therapists will be able to claim under art and music therapy line items. The NDIA plans to strengthen verification processes to ensure compliance. 

• Qualifications: To be recognised as a NDIS provider, art therapists must be members of ANZACATA, and music therapists must be members of AMTA. Both require a masters degree. 

• Outcome reporting: The NDIA will be collecting more data from providers about therapy effectiveness. This may mean additional reporting requirements to demonstrate participant outcomes. 

• Market impacts: Lower price limits may influence provider sustainability, especially for sole practitioners. The NDIA has committed to monitoring supply and demand to ensure the workforce remains viable. 

• Future guidance: The Expert Advisory Committee (EAC) will be tasked with identifying which participant cohorts benefit most from art and music therapy. This will shape how providers market and deliver services. 

Looking ahead 

While the reduced rate may feel like a setback for some providers, the recognition of art and music therapy as a legitimate therapy under the NDIS is a positive outcome. This provides certainty and allows providers to continue supporting participants in achieving their goals. 

It will be important for providers to stay across updates on eligibility, reporting, and compliance requirements as the NDIA puts these changes into practice. 

For more information, you can read the NDIA’s full update on Independent review into art and music supports.