Thriving Kids

Thriving Kids Program: What It Means for Your Child’s Support

Starting 1 July 2026, the Australian Government will begin a 2-year rollout of the ‘Thriving Kids‘ program. A new early childhood approach designed to better support children with mild autism or developmental delay under 9 years old. This change aims to ensure the NDIS stays focused on its original purpose: helping people with a permanent and significant disability.

If you’re a parent or carer of a young child receiving NDIS support, you may be wondering: How will this affect us? Let’s break it down clearly.

What Is the Thriving Kids Program?

The Thriving Kids program is a separate initiative from the NDIS, created to support children aged 9 and under who have mild to moderate developmental delay or mild autism. These children often need extra help, but may not meet the NDIS threshold for a permanent and significant disability.

Instead of joining the NDIS due to a lack of other options, families will now access tailored early childhood intervention through:

  • Local schools
  • GP clinics and health services
  • Community hubs

Unlike the NDIS which is demand driven and offers individual choice. Thriving Kids will operate under a fixed budget and deliver support through state and territory systems and early childhood partners.

How Will This Affect NDIS Participants?

Until 1 July 2027, current NDIS access rules will stay the same. After that date, children who may be better suited to the Thriving Kids program will be redirected, but not removed abruptly from the NDIS.

If your child is under 9 and currently on the NDIS with mild autism or moderate developmental delay, they may be asked to attend a plan reassessment meeting. This full plan reassessment will determine whether the Thriving Kids program or the NDIS is the best fit for their needs.

This ensures every child gets the right level of support whether that’s moderate support through community services or ongoing NDIS funding.

What Does This Mean for Your Family?

You might be thinking: “Will my child lose support?”
The answer is no, but the way support is delivered may change.

The goal of this shift is to provide better suited early learning and child and family services for kids who don’t need lifelong NDIS plans. It also helps ensure the NDIS remains sustainable for those with the highest needs.

For many families, this means:

  • More access to local, community based help
  • Less paperwork and faster entry to services
  • Support coordinated through trusted local providers

How Can We Help You Navigate These Changes?

At RVP Care Services, we understand that NDIS reassessment for children can feel overwhelming. That’s why our team is here to support you every step of the way.

We offer dedicated disability support worker services across Narre Warren, Pakenham, Officer, and surrounding areas. Whether you need help preparing for a plan reassessment meeting or understanding the NDIS vs Thriving Kids program, we’re ready to assist.

How a Support Coordinator Can Help

Our sister company, iDeal Care Services, provides qualified support coordinators who can:

  • Explain your options under the new system
  • Connect you with local Occupational Therapists for reassessments
  • Help you access support for developmental delay under 9
  • Advocate for your child with the NDIS or early childhood partners

A support coordinator acts as your guide, reducing stress and making sure your child’s plan reflects their true needs, no matter which program they’re in.

Looking Ahead: Support That Grows with Your Child

The Thriving Kids program is part of a broader effort to strengthen early childhood intervention across Australia. By offering the right help at the right time often within 12 months of identifying a delay, children can thrive in their homes, schools, and communities.

If you’re unsure whether your child will be affected, reach out today. Our team can help you understand the changes, prepare for any reassessments, and find a support worker or coordinator who’s the perfect fit for your family.

Let us walk this path with you so your child gets the support they deserve, now and in the future.

 

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