AMTA welcomes recognition of music therapy under NDIS
The Australian Music Therapy Association (AMTA) welcomes the report of the Independent Review of NDIS Funded Music and Art Supports led by Dr Stephen Duckett AM. The Independent Review was commissioned by the former Minister for the NDIS, Bill Shorten, following a strong campaign against removal of music therapy as a therapeutic support in November 2024.
The report reaffirms music therapy as a recognised therapeutic support under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The report also confirms that only AMTA-registered music therapists are eligible to deliver music therapy. This recognition aligns music therapy with other allied health professions such as speech pathology and dietetics, underscoring the profession’s standards and clinical expertise.
AMTA President Monica Zidar RMT said the decision sends a strong signal about the importance of music therapy within the disability sector.
“We welcome the recognition in the Duckett report that music therapy continue to be funded as a therapeutic support under the NDIS, and that only AMTA-registered music therapists can deliver these services. This is an important acknowledgment of the professionalism and clinical expertise of our members.”
However, AMTA is deeply concerned by the pricing cuts announced by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) upon publication of Dr Duckett’s report. The new maximum hourly rate of $156 is reduced from the previous $193, a reduction of 20%. Ms Zidar warned the cut places services at risk of closure and threatens the sustainability of the profession. The change risks NDIS participants’ access to music therapy at the same time as Dr Duckett confirms its value as an effective, proven therapeutic intervention that can be life-changing for some NDIS participants.
“The recent pricing adjustment to $156 per hour makes it very difficult for many services to remain viable. Participants and their families risk losing access when clinics are forced to close and registered music therapists are pushed out of the sector.
”Music therapy is a nationally regulated, evidence-based allied health practice akin to speech pathology and dietetics - it should remain accessible and sustainable.”
Despite these concerns, AMTA emphasised its commitment to working constructively with government and the NDIA.
“We understand the NDIA has accepted all of Dr Duckett’s recommendations. While the decision on pricing is concerning and disappointing, the AMTA is committed to working constructively with the Government and the NDIA to ensure NDIS participants can continue accessing the supports they need.
“We will continue to advocate for GST exemption on music therapy, in line with other allied health supports, to reduce cost pressures for participants and their families.”
Taken from the Australian Music Therapy Association Media Release on September 12, 2025
