NDIS changes to Art and Music Therapy supports
Has the NDIS updated pricing for Art and Music Therapy?
Yes, the price limit for art and music therapies has been reduced from $193.99 per hour to $156.16 per hour.
Art therapy must be claimed using the art therapy line item and music therapy must be claimed under the music therapy line item and not under Other professional or any other listed professional.
The NDIA has advised that these updates will start from 24 November 2025.
What is art therapy?
Art therapy involves the use of creative expression through various art forms to help people express themselves, improve their mental health and help process trauma.
It can involve a mix of strategic elements, like freedom of expression, reflecting on past experiences and healing through relaxation and the development of self-esteem.
Art therapy could be beneficial to a wide range of people, depending on their own needs and experiences. And can involve drawing, painting, sculpting, or other forms of visual art.
You can read more about these changes on the NDIS website.
What is music therapy?
Like art therapy, music therapy also focuses on the use of a creative medium like music, to help with healing, emotional support, self-reflection and much more. Music therapy can involve singing, playing instruments, composing, or simply just listening to music.
Registered Music Therapists (RMTs) can help people in areas like communication, motor skills, mobility, mood, emotions, cognitive capacity, identity and self-confidence.
So, for some people there may be physical benefits as well, with movement through dance to assist with mobility and coordination.
Tips to remember
Here are some useful tips...
- Who is qualified to provide art therapy? A Master of Art Therapy degree is required for someone to work as a professional in the field of art therapy. The art therapist must be a professional member with the Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapy Association (ANZACATA).
- Who is qualified to provide music therapy? Music therapies should be delivered by a qualified therapist who is registered with the Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA).
- What is the NDIS hourly rate? the price limit for art and music therapies is $156.16 per hour.
- How do I find an art or music therapist near me? A great way to get started via a search service like the NDIA provider finder.