The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has confirmed that art and music therapies will continue to be funded where there is clear evidence of beneficial outcomes for participants. This follows the Independent Review of Art and Music Therapies led by health economist Dr Stephen Duckett AM, which found these therapies can be effective and even life-changing for people with disability in the right circumstances.
Key Findings from the Duckett Review
The review made 19 recommendations on art and music supports for NDIS participants — with 15 directed to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), all of which the NDIA supports.
Core recommendations include:
Therapies must be delivered by qualified therapists registered with a recognised professional association.
A new national price limit of $156.16/hour for art and music therapy from 24 November 2025, matching the maximum counselling rate.
Clearer distinction between:
Therapeutic supports – delivered by trained therapists
Non-therapeutic activities – delivered without recognised therapeutic qualifications
NDIS funding cannot cover the cost of the activity itself (e.g., art materials, music lessons) but can fund supports enabling participation.
The NDIS Evidence Advisory Committee will:
Review the evidence base for art & music therapy in its 2025–26 work plan
Develop a process for decisions when evidence is limited
Pricing & Access
From 24 November 2025, the Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (PAPL) Guide will reflect the new $156.16/hour cap. Until then, participants can continue accessing supports as outlined in their current plans.
Why the change?
Dr Duckett found the previous rates too high, putting pressure on the wider therapy market. The new price aligns with government service rates for counselling and reflects that art and music therapy are emerging, unregulated professions.
Therapeutic vs Non-Therapeutic Supports
Therapeutic
Delivered by qualified, registered therapists
Goal-focused and evidence-based
May include clinical assessment, skill development, and wellbeing improvement
Non-Therapeutic
General creative or music activities
Not eligible for therapy price limits unless delivered by a recognised therapist
Still valuable, but funded differently
Next Steps for Participants
Ensure your art or music therapist is registered with a professional association recognised by the NDIA.
Talk to your support coordinator or plan manager about how the new pricing might impact your plan.
Watch for updates from the Evidence Advisory Committee in early 2026.
Official Statements
Senator Jenny McAllister, Minister for the NDIS:
“Eligible participants who access art and music therapy can be confident they are being supported by qualified therapists… We’re also making sure that the price is fair and in line with other services.”
Dr Stephen Duckett:
“It is clear that art and music therapies can be effective, and even life-changing, for some people with disability… My recommendation is that $156.16/hour is more appropriate, in line with the rate for counselling.”
Internal & External Resources
Internal link: NDIS Pricing Arrangements & Price Limits – Complete Guide
External link: NDIS Data & Research – Duckett Review