GOOD NEWS for both NDIS participants and providers: Art and music therapies under the NDIS remain accessible to participants, as recent research has verified their potential to offer significant benefits when implemented correctly. At VCCG, we help NDIS providers understand and implement these regulatory changes to maintain compliance and deliver quality services.
Health economist Dr Stephen Duckett AM conducted the Independent Review of Art and Music Therapies. He evaluated the value and role of these supports in the lives of NDIS participants. The review determined that both therapies can be successful, and in other instances, life-changing, if provided by trained professionals.
Dr Duckett’s report was 19 recommendations, of which 15 were addressed to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). All have been adopted by the agency.
Key Points from the Duckett Review:
– Only qualified, registered professionals can deliver art and music therapy under NDIS funding. This ensures the standard of care and safeguards against unqualified providers.
– There’s a new national price cap of $156.16 per hour for these therapies. This change brings art and music therapy payment rates in line with existing counselling rates, aiming to create consistent pricing and reduce market distortions.
– The NDIS won’t cover recreational painting classes or regular music lessons. Funding is limited to supports that assist participants in accessing these activities—for example, transport or personal support. In other words, NDIS pays for the support to participate, not the leisure activity itself.
– The Evidence Advisory Committee plans to review the effectiveness of art and music therapies for specific population groups as part of its 2025–26 work plan.
These qualification requirements are part of the broader NDIS provider registration framework that ensures all service providers meet strict quality and safety standards.
Pricing Update and Transition
The updated Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (PAPL) Guide will outline these changes, and the $156.16 hourly rate officially takes effect on 24 November 2025. Until then, participants can continue accessing art and music therapy if these supports are already listed in their existing NDIS plans.
Minister’s Statement
Jenny McAllister, Minister for the NDIS, acknowledged Dr Duckett’s review, stating that his analysis provides an actionable direction for both NDIS participants and providers of art and music therapy.
Dr Duckett’s Insights
Dr Duckett emphasised that art and music therapies can deliver measurable outcomes for individuals with disabilities. He suggested that the fee structures for these therapies should be standardised with
counselling rates, given that prior discrepancies in pricing were creating wider pressures across the therapeutic services sector.
Moving Forward
The revised guidelines introduce enhanced clarity and uniformity for registered NDIS providers and participants. It remains essential that providers adhere to updated pricing models and requirements to ensure ongoing compliance.
At Vertex Consulting & Compliance Group (VCCG), we help NDIS providers stay compliant and keep you updated with the latest changes. If you need assistance in navigating these updates, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today at 1300 028 224.
Source: Duckett review confirms art and music therapy to continue | NDIS