Creative & Artistic Skill Development for NDIS Participants
Through the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), participants can access support that nurtures these creative skills as part of life skill development and community participation.
At Openhearted Support, we believe that creative programs can unlock confidence, communication, and emotional wellbeing — helping participants live a more fulfilling, connected life.
🎵 Why Creative Skills Matter for NDIS Participants
Creative skill development offers more than artistic expression. It promotes:
✅ Emotional Expression: Art and music help participants express feelings that may be difficult to put into words.
✅ Improved Motor Skills: Painting, dancing, or playing an instrument supports coordination, balance, and fine motor development.
✅ Cognitive Growth: Creativity stimulates memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
✅ Social Interaction: Group activities foster teamwork, communication, and friendships.
✅ Confidence and Self-Esteem: Completing an artwork or performing in a group builds pride and accomplishment.
These activities can form part of an NDIS participant’s core supports, capacity building, or community participation goals.
Art Therapy and Creative Expression
Art therapy allows participants to explore their emotions through colour, texture, and imagination. It’s particularly effective for those with Autism, ADHD, intellectual disabilities, or mental health challenges.
Art-based activities might include:
🎨 Painting and drawing sessions
🧩 Craft and sensory art
🖼️ Visual storytelling and journaling
Our Occupational Therapists and support staff often integrate art-based learning into therapy sessions to enhance focus, relaxation, and motor control.
Music Therapy and Rhythmic Engagement
Music is a universal language — it connects people regardless of ability or background. For NDIS participants, music therapy helps with emotional regulation, speech development, and sensory integration.
It may include:
🎤 Singing and vocal training
🥁 Drumming or percussion therapy
🎸 Learning instruments
🎧 Rhythm and movement exercises
At Openhearted Support, we encourage participants to engage with music in ways that bring joy, promote relaxation, and boost self-expression.
Dance and Movement for Confidence
Dance and movement therapy combine physical activity with creativity — improving coordination, balance, and mood.
Group dance sessions also encourage social bonding, teamwork, and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s gentle movement, cultural dance, or performance-based routines, dance can be a fun and engaging way to achieve physical and emotional goals.
Our team supports participants to attend community dance programs, NDIS-funded workshops, or even one-on-one movement sessions to build strength and confidence.
How Creative Activities Fit Into the NDIS
Creative activities are funded under several categories in an NDIS plan, including:
At Openhearted Support, we work with participants and support coordinators to ensure creative goals are clearly outlined in their NDIS plans and effectively implemented.
💜 How Openhearted Support Helps
As an NDIS registered provider across Melbourne and surrounding regions, Openhearted Support offers a holistic approach that includes creativity as part of care and skill development.
Our team assists with:
🎨 Community Participation: Connecting participants to art studios, creative groups, and inclusive classes.
🎵 Life Skill Development: Using music, art, and dance to build emotional and social skills.
🧠 Therapeutic Supports: Our Occupational Therapists integrate sensory and creative methods into therapy plans.
💬 Support Coordination: Helping participants link with local creative programs and use NDIS funding effectively.
🏡 Personalised Care Plans: Ensuring each participant’s interests, talents, and goals are at the centre of their journey.
We see creativity as more than an activity — it’s a pathway to empowerment and self-discovery.
Final Thoughts
Everyone deserves the chance to create, perform, and express themselves. For NDIS participants, engaging in creative programs can transform not just skills, but confidence, wellbeing, and social connection.
At Openhearted Support, we’re here to help participants discover their artistic side, explore new interests, and grow in ways that inspire joy and independence.
💜 Because creativity builds not just skills — but self-belief.
📞 Get Started Today
If you or someone you support would love to explore creative skill development through the NDIS, contact Openhearted Support today.
📞 1800 976 186
📧 admin@ohsupport.com.au
🌐 www.openheartedsupport.com.au