At Provider Choice, we champion choice and control, the very foundation of the NDIS. The scheme was designed to recognise that every person is unique and that no single approach works for everyone. The right support is whatever helps you achieve your goals, in your own way.
That’s why we’re thrilled by the news that art therapy will remain available under the NDIS. For many people, creative therapies aren’t just an activity, they’re a pathway to connection, growth and wellbeing.
So, what’s changing?
- Price cap: From 24 November 2025, art therapists can charge up to $156.16 per hour, aligning with counselling. Until then, the previous price cap of $193.99 still applies.
- Qualifications: To bill the new rate, therapists must be registered with a recognised professional association. This ensures you’re accessing high‑quality support.
- Evidence requirement: Funding is available when there is clear evidence that art therapy will benefit you.
- Therapy vs. hobby: NDIS funding can’t pay for general art classes or materials. It funds the therapeutic component delivered by a qualified professional.
What stays the same?
- Art therapy remains part of the NDIS. If art therapy is already in your plan, you can keep accessing it.
- Your goals come first. Your NDIS plan still needs to show that the therapy is directly helping with your goals (improving daily living, wellbeing or similar).
Is art therapy right for you?
Art therapy uses creativity to help you express yourself, process emotions and build skills. It can be useful for:
- Kids and adults on the autism spectrum who find talking about feelings hard.
- People living with anxiety, depression or past trauma who benefit from a safe, non‑verbal outlet.
- Those with brain injuries or neurological conditions who want to improve coordination, cognition, memory or confidence.
Everyone’s experience is different. If you love making art and feel it helps you reach your goals, it might be worth exploring.
Steps to include art therapy in your plan
- Check your plan. Look at your Improved Daily Living or Improved Health & Wellbeing budgets. These funds usually cover therapies.
- Gather evidence. Ask allied health professionals (Psychologists, Occupational Therapists etc) to provide written reports or letters about how art therapy supports your goals. Include examples or past progress if you have them.
- Speak to your Planner or Support Coordinator. At your next review meeting explain how it aligns with your goals, why you believe it will help and how many sessions you're requesting.
- Choose a qualified therapist. Make sure your art therapist is registered with a professional association. Ask about their experience delivering therapeutic support under NDIS. If you're in a remote area, check whether telehealth sessions are possible.
The Power of Choice
At Provider Choice, we stay close to NDIS changes so you don’t have to. Our team makes it simple to understand what’s eligible, from products to therapies to supports, so you stay in control of your plan.
Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on social media to stay informed and confident about every choice you make.
For more information on art and music therapy, see the recent update released by the NDIS here:
https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10894-duckett-review-confirms-art-and-music-therapy-continue
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