Early intervention can shape a child’s future. It builds confidence, communication, and key developmental skills during the years that matter most.
For many Australian families, the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) has been the main way to access these early supports. But from 2025 onward, a new initiative known as the Thriving Kids Program will join the picture. This offers another pathway for children with developmental delays or mild to moderate needs to access support.
So, what does this mean for families already in the NDIS or those planning to apply? Let’s explore how NDIS early intervention and Thriving Kids will work together to give every child the best possible start in life.
What Is the Thriving Kids Program?
The Thriving Kids Program is set to launch across Australia in 2026. This program is designed to support children with developmental delays or emerging disabilities who may not meet the eligibility criteria for the NDIS.
Right now, the NDIS supports around one in ten Australian children, many of whom have mild to moderate needs. The idea is that these needs could be addressed earlier and more efficiently through community-based programs.
Thriving Kids will:
- Provide early intervention therapy and support services outside of the NDIS.
- Focus on children with developmental delays rather than permanent disabilities.
- Offer family education, community programs, and local therapy supports.
- Ensure no child “falls through the cracks” because they don’t qualify for NDIS funding.
The goal is to reduce pressure on the NDIS while keeping children and families connected to the right level of care.
What This Means for Families in the NDIS
If your child already has an NDIS plan, nothing changes right now. Your child will continue to receive their approved supports and funding.
However, over time, some children with lower-intensity or short-term support needs may be reassessed and referred to the Thriving Kids Program instead of continuing within the NDIS.
For new applicants, Thriving Kids may become the main entry point for early childhood intervention. Unless the child has a significant and permanent disability that meets NDIS eligibility.
This dual-pathway approach means families will still have access to therapies and developmental supports, but through different systems depending on the level of need.
The Benefits of the Thriving Kids Program
For families who might otherwise miss out on early intervention, Thriving Kids is an encouraging step forward.
Key benefits include:
- Inclusive access for children who don’t qualify for NDIS funding.
- Community-based supports, reducing wait times and improving accessibility.
- Focus on functional development, helping children build communication, motor, and social skills.
- Collaboration with local providers, schools, and family services to deliver practical, connected care.
Ultimately, both the NDIS and Thriving Kids share the same goal: to ensure children receive the right help, at the right time, from the right people.
NDIS Early Intervention
The NDIS Early Childhood Approach remains central to supporting children with significant developmental needs or disabilities. It funds a wide range of therapies and supports, such as:
- Speech therapy to build language and communication skills.
- Occupational therapy for sensory processing and daily activities.
- Physiotherapy to improve movement and coordination.
- Psychology and behaviour support for emotional regulation and learning.
- Family capacity-building programs to support parents and carers.
These supports help children build strong foundations for independence and confidence. Under the new framework, Thriving Kids will complement, not replace, this work.
Preparing for Change: What Families Should Do Now
While the Thriving Kids Program won’t fully roll out until 2026, it’s wise to start preparing now. Here’s how:
- Stay informed: Ask your support coordinator, early childhood partner, or plan manager about updates as they roll out.
- Keep your evidence up to date: Maintain reports from therapists and educators that show your child’s progress and ongoing needs.
- Plan ahead for reviews: If your child’s needs change, ensure your NDIS goals and reports reflect that.
- Stay connected: Engage with your providers and community networks to explore what supports may be available under both systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is the Thriving Kids Program different from the NDIS?
The NDIS supports children and adults with significant and permanent disabilities, offering ongoing funding for therapies, assistive technology, and capacity-building supports.
In contrast, Thriving Kids will focus on shorter-term, early intervention for children with developmental delays or mild needs, helping them access the right therapies earlier without going through the full NDIS application process.
2. Will the Thriving Kids Program replace the NDIS?
No, the Thriving Kids Program will not replace the NDIS. Instead, it will complement it. Children who have significant and ongoing support needs will continue to receive NDIS funding, while those with mild to moderate developmental delays may be referred to Thriving Kids for early and targeted assistance.
3. What happens if my child is already in the NDIS?
If your child already has an NDIS plan, there are no immediate changes. You’ll continue to receive your approved supports. Over time, reassessments may direct some children with lower support needs toward Thriving Kids instead, but these changes will happen gradually and with full communication to families.
4. How can I find out if my child will be eligible for Thriving Kids?
Eligibility details are still being finalised, but families can start preparing now by speaking with their Support Coordinator, Early Childhood Partner, or GP. If your child currently receives early intervention supports through the NDIS, your providers will guide you on whether the Thriving Kids pathway might apply in the future.
Achora: Your Partner in Early Intervention and NDIS Navigation
At Achora, we know that every child’s journey is different and so are the systems that support them. Our experienced Support Coordinators and Plan Managers help families understand their options, prepare the right evidence, and access the supports that make the biggest difference.
Whether your child is in the NDIS or you’re exploring eligibility for the upcoming Thriving Kids Program, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Reach out to Achora today to learn more about early intervention supports, plan preparation, and how we can help your family build a strong foundation for your child’s future.