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Kids' Early Support Shifts: NDIS Replaced by Thriving Kids
1 Oct
Summary
- Children under nine with mild developmental delays can now access early intervention.
- Thriving Kids program replaces NDIS for eligible children by 2028.
- Queensland is the only state not participating in the new program.
Starting today, children younger than nine years old experiencing mild developmental delays or autism spectrum disorder can access early intervention through the Thriving Kids program. This initiative is administered by state and territory governments across Australia.
The Albanese government revealed this new program in August 2025 as a phased replacement for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for this age group. By 2028, Thriving Kids is expected to fully take over from the NDIS for eligible children.
A key difference is that participation in Thriving Kids will not mandate a formal diagnosis, which could streamline access and save families significant expenses. Health Minister Mark Butler has reassured parents that there will be no lapse in government assistance.
However, Queensland stands as the only Australian state that has not agreed to join the Thriving Kids program. This refusal leaves families in Queensland in an uncertain situation as the new support scheme begins its phased rollout.
