NDIS Pricing Review for Art and Music Therapy: What You Need to Know
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has extended its independent review into pricing for music and art therapy to allow more time for consideration of the 600 submissions received. Led by Dr. Stephen Duckett AM, this review is focused on determining appropriate pricing for these therapies, not on whether they will remain as NDIS supports.
What Has Been Proposed?
Originally, changes to how art and music therapy could be accessed were scheduled to take effect from February 1, 2025, including:
A one-on-one rate of $67.56 per hour when delivered by a registered provider.
A group rate of $193.99 per hour when delivered to a minimum of four participants by a registered provider.
These changes were intended to bring music and art therapy under the community participation budget, rather than classifying them as therapies under the NDIS definition. Participants who have art or music therapy specifically stated in their plans as reasonable and necessary based on evidence in their circumstances would have continued to access supports at a higher rate.
However, with the review now extended until April 17, 2025, these proposed changes are still under consideration.
What Does This Mean for Participants and Providers?
Music and art therapy remain part of the NDIS. The review is not about removing these supports but about assessing their pricing structure.
No immediate changes. Participants can continue accessing music and art therapy through their current arrangements.
Providers can continue to claim at current pricing levels as listed in the NDIS Pricing Arrangements during the review process.
The NDIA will review findings before finalizing any changes. Any pricing adjustments will not take effect until after the review is completed and considered.
Additionally, the NDIS Evidence Advisory Committee (EAC) will assess the evidence base for music and art therapy in relation to disability-related support. This aligns with broader NDIS reforms aimed at ensuring all funded therapies meet clear evidentiary standards.
For now, participants and providers can continue as usual, with more updates expected once the review concludes later this year.
