What the New Thriving Kids Project Means for Your Family

The government has announced a $2 billion program called the Thriving Kids Project. It’s being described as one of the biggest shifts in how children with developmental delays and autism will receive support.

For many families, the news may feel confusing or worrying. Will my child still get the help they need? What does this mean for our NDIS plan?

Here’s a more detailed look at what’s happening, why it matters, and what families should watch out for.

What Is the Thriving Kids Project?

Right now, many children with developmental concerns (like speech delays, social challenges, or autism) are supported through the NDIS. Under this new plan:

• Children with mild to moderate needs will be directed away from the NDIS.

• Instead, they’ll be supported by “foundational supports” — programs delivered through schools, childcare, community health services, and GPs.

• Children with severe, lifelong disabilities will still access the NDIS.

The changes are set to roll out by mid-2027.

On paper, this is meant to reduce the stress of waiting years for a diagnosis just to get support. Instead, families would be able to access help sooner, in familiar places.

Why Is the Change Happening?

The NDIS is currently supporting more children than expected, and the scheme’s costs are rising rapidly. The government argues that:

• The NDIS should focus on people with the most complex, lifelong disabilities.

• Children with mild needs are better supported earlier, in schools and health services, before challenges become bigger.

• Moving children out of the NDIS should help ensure the scheme stays sustainable in the long term.

  
  

What Could Be Positive

If Thriving Kids works the way it’s intended, families might see:

• Earlier access to support — without long waits for diagnosis or paperwork.

• Less bureaucracy — families won’t have to fight for NDIS plans just to get speech therapy or developmental help.

• Support where children already are — schools, GPs, and childcare centres could become the front line of help.

• A more focused NDIS — children with significant needs should receive more consistent support because the scheme isn’t stretched as thin.

What Families Are Worried About

But many parents and professionals are raising serious concerns:

• Will the system be ready? 2027 isn’t far away, and setting up a whole new national model takes time. Families fear children could lose NDIS funding before the new supports exist.

• What if local services aren’t available? Not every school has access to a speech therapist, OT, or counsellor. Rural families especially worry about gaps.

• Will support be enough? The NDIS often funds intensive therapy hours. It’s unclear whether foundational supports will match that level.

• What about choice? The NDIS gives families choice and control over who provides services. Will families lose that power if supports are tied to schools or community health?

  
  

What This Could Look Like Day-to-Day

Here are some examples of what may change for families:

• Now: A child with mild autism might receive an NDIS package that funds weekly speech therapy and social skills groups with a provider of choice.

• Future (Thriving Kids): That child might access support through a school-based program or community clinic, without NDIS funding.

• Now: Parents often need a formal diagnosis to access NDIS.

• Future: Foundational supports might be available without a diagnosis — meaning earlier help, but potentially less intensive support.

  
  

How We Can Support Families Through the Change

At Daffodil Therapy and Care, we know this shift feels uncertain. Here’s how we plan to stand alongside families:

• Clear information — keeping parents updated as more details are released.

• Advocacy — speaking up so that no child loses out during the transition.

• Practical support — helping families understand how their child’s needs fit into the new system.

• Emotional reassurance — recognising the anxiety this change brings and making sure families feel heard.

  
  

Final Thoughts

The Thriving Kids Project could make support easier, earlier, and more accessible. But if it’s rushed or under-resourced, families risk being left without the care they rely on.

For now, the most important thing for parents is to stay informed, keep asking questions, and know that your voice matters in shaping what comes next.

We’ll continue to share updates, advocate for families, and most importantly, ensure children don’t fall through the cracks.