Families of children with autism or developmental delays are set to see big changes in the way support is delivered, with the federal government announcing a new initiative called Thriving Kids.

Currently, one in five young children is either on the autism spectrum or experiencing developmental delays, and many rely on the NDIS for extra help. But Disability Minister Mark Butler says the NDIS was designed for people with permanent and significant disabilities, not for such a large group of children needing early intervention.

Thriving Kids: New Program to Support Children with Autism and Developmental Delays

Instead, Thriving Kids will roll out from July 2026 and be fully in place by mid-2027, offering tailored support for children outside the NDIS. The aim is to give kids and families access to therapies and services earlier, with the right help available through mainstream systems like Medicare.

This could include bulk-billed check-ups for three-year-olds, and new Medicare items covering speech therapy, occupational therapy, and psychosocial support.

A Once-in-a-Generation Change

Butler acknowledged the change may be confronting for families: “I know this will be hard for some parents to hear… We need a better system that enables our children to thrive.” He stressed that no child will lose their NDIS support until Thriving Kids is fully up and running.

Disability and autism advocacy groups have cautiously welcomed the plan. Autism Awareness CEO Nicole Rogerson described it as “a once-in-a-generation change in how we look at developmental paediatrics,” while others said the reassurance that children won’t be moved until supports are in place is critical.

The government will kick things off with a $2 billion investment, matched by states and territories, to strengthen mainstream services so families aren’t left scrambling for support.

For parents, the message is clear: the NDIS will continue for children with the most significant and permanent needs, but Thriving Kids is being designed to ensure families have better access to early help and therapies—without needing to rely on a scheme that wasn’t built for them.

What do you think about the proposed changes? How does it impact your family? Join in the conversation on our ellaslist Sydney Facebook page. 

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