From today, children under nine with mild developmental delays and autism can access early intervention services through Australia’s new Thriving Kids program. Announced by the Albanese government in August 2025, this initiative aims to provide critical support for families while gradually transitioning children off the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). By 2028, Thriving Kids will fully replace the NDIS for these children.
The Thriving Kids program distinguishes itself from the NDIS by not requiring a formal diagnosis to access its services. This change is expected to streamline the process and reduce costs for families navigating developmental challenges. Health Minister Mark Butler confirmed that there would be no gap in government support for children as the program rolls out, stating, “Parents should feel confident that their children will receive the necessary assistance.”
Despite the positive reception from many quarters, Queensland stands out as the only Australian state refusing to participate in the Thriving Kids program. This refusal leaves families in uncertainty as the first phase of the NDIS replacement scheme begins. The decision by Queensland’s government has sparked concern among parents who worry about potential gaps in services for their children.
The Thriving Kids program aims to fill a significant need in Australian healthcare. With an estimated 1 in 6 children aged 5-11 experiencing developmental delays, access to timely intervention services can significantly impact long-term outcomes. The program's rollout could potentially alter the trajectory for many children, offering support that could mitigate future challenges.
Parents have long expressed frustrations with the NDIS, citing bureaucratic hurdles and lengthy waiting times for diagnosis and service approval. The new program appears to address these issues directly. By removing the requirement for a formal diagnosis, Thriving Kids may expedite access to necessary services. This aspect of the program has been particularly welcomed by families who have faced delays in the past.
The NDIS, which was introduced in 2013, has faced criticism for its complexity and funding limitations. As Thriving Kids takes center stage, the Albanese government is signaling a shift towards more accessible support for families with young children. However, the Queensland government’s refusal to join the program raises questions about uniformity in national policy regarding developmental support.
Parents in Queensland are left grappling with uncertainty. Some have voiced their concerns publicly, expressing the fear that their children could miss out on essential services during this transition. The Queensland government has not yet provided a clear rationale for its decision to opt out, leaving families feeling abandoned at a critical time.
The rollout of Thriving Kids is expected to be gradual, with initial services focused on children with mild developmental delays and autism. This targeted approach aims to maximize the program's effectiveness while allowing for adjustments based on feedback from families and service providers. The Albanese government has committed to monitoring the program closely to ensure it meets the needs of its young beneficiaries.
As the first phase of Thriving Kids launches, anticipation and anxiety coexist among families. For many, this initiative represents a hopeful new chapter in accessing early intervention services, while others remain wary of the implications of Queensland’s withdrawal.
The evolution of support for children with developmental delays in Australia is closely watched by advocacy groups and families alike. The Thriving Kids program could set a precedent for how the nation approaches early intervention in the years to come. However, until Queensland clarifies its stance, many families will remain in a state of limbo, uncertain about the future of support for their children.
According to The Guardian.
