Thriving Kids Initiative Update
Published at 20-04-2026 15:59:42
It’s been 8 months since the Australian Government announced their new Thriving Kids program. At the time, there wasn’t much information to give you, however we’ve been keeping our ears out for updates for you all.
What is Thriving Kids?
According to the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, Thriving Kids is a national system of supports for children aged 8 and under with developmental delay and/or autism with low to moderate support needs.
It is a program that is outside of the NDIS, with a focus on providing supports in natural settings like homes and schools without requiring a formal diagnosis.
The NDIS will remain available for those children with permanent and significant disability who have high support needs, subject to the usual arrangements.
Updates as of April 2026
- Timeline: Initial rollout starts 1st October 2026, with full operation by 1st January 2028.
- Target Audience: Children aged 8 and under with developmental delays or autism with low to moderate support needs.
- NDIS Transition: Children on the NDIS before 1st January 2028 can stay on it, but new children with lower-level needs will be supported through the Thriving Kids program.
- Service Delivery: Supports will be delivered in everyday settings, including daycare, school and homes.
- No Diagnosis Needed: Support is designed to be accessible without needing a formal diagnosis, focusing on early intervention.
Keys to Survival
Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) has researched and come up with key factors needed in order for this program to succeed:
- Genuine partnership and co-design with Autistic people, families and experienced service providers.
- A capable and well-supported workforce across community and mainstream services.
- Strong coordination between Thriving Kids and the NDIS so children do not fall through gaps between systems.
- Clear program design, delivery mechanisms and accountability arrangements.
- Sustained Commonwealth and state funding to ensure consistent access across metro, regional and remote communities.
Final Thoughts
Whilst not all aspects of the program have been released as of yet, Thriving Kids is well on its way.
As we move closer to the implementation date, we will continue to provide updates as they come.
Links for more information:
https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/thriving-kids?language=en
https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/11085-thriving-kids
https://www.aspect.org.au/blog/thriving-kids