Drawing a line: disability arts sector fears NDIS cuts

The disability arts sector in Australia is apprehensive about potential cuts to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), fearing it may impact the support available to artists with disabilities. Arts Project Australia, a registered NDIS provider, has supported over 150 neurodivergent and intellectually disabled artists since its establishment 50 years ago.

The studio's recent success, including an artist being named a 2026 Archibald Prize finalist, highlights the impact of full support on artists with disabilities. However, new NDIS measures to curb growth, including a funding reduction for social, civic, and community participation, and a 10% cut to individual budget allocations for daily activities, have raised concerns within the sector.

Executive director Liz Nowell of Arts Project Australia expressed worry about the potential consequences of these changes, while NDIS participants are informed that they will retain control over their chosen providers. Despite this, national director Sarah-Mace Dennis of the Arts and Disability Network Australia emphasized the unique nature of the disability arts ecosystem, stating that a swift alteration in support could leave artists without crucial assistance.