NDIA Statement – NDIS funded music and art therapy
The National Disability Insurance Scheme exists to ensure participants can access the evidence-based disability-related support they need.
The Government has released definitions of NDIS supports, as part of legislation changes to make it clear what NDIS participants can and cannot use their funding for.
In line with the legislation the Agency is updating its guidance to participants. A new Operational Guideline relating to therapy supports will be released on 2 December that clarifies:
NDIS participants will continue to have access to music and art therapy. From 1 February 2025 how participants access music and art therapy will change. Participants will be able to access these supports through two different ways through their community participation budget:
- At a 1 to 1 rate of $67.56 an hour when delivered by a registered provider.
- At a group rate of $193.99 an hour when delivered to a minimum of 4 participants by a registered provider. This will support participants to have greater opportunities for inclusion and participation in the community.
Participants and providers can continue with current arrangements until 1 February when the changes to the price guide come into effect.
Participants who have art or music therapy stated in their plan, because it is reasonable and necessary and based on evidence in their specific circumstances, can continue to access supports at the higher rate.
