NDIA backflips on changes to Music and Art Therapy Functing

The NDIA has now commissioned Dr Stephen Duckett AM to undertake the review ahead of the operation of the Expert Advisory Committee by July 2025. Dr Duckett is an experienced health economist who has occupied several leadership roles in health services, leading reform and evidence-based innovations in health care. As part of his work, Dr Duckett will review the evidence of the efficacy of music and art therapy for people with disability and the pricing of supports.

As a result, the NDIA has also advised it will defer the release of the operational guidance clarifying decision making on therapy supports, which is required under recent Government changes to the NDIS Act, and any associated price guide changes. The NDIA will now release the operational guidance in 2025. Any proposed changes will not come into force until the review is completed and the relevant findings are considered. You can read the NDIA’s advice on this matter here.