Thriving Kids begins as Queensland stays outside NDIS transition
The early intervention program is open to children under nine without a formal diagnosis, with NDIS support for this group due to be replaced by 2028 under the stated plan.
Thriving Kids begins on 1 October, offering early intervention to children under nine with mild developmental delays or autism. State and territory governments will administer the program.
The Albanese government announced the change in August 2025. Unlike the NDIS, Thriving Kids does not require a formal diagnosis, a provision intended to make access faster and reduce costs for families.
The program is intended to gradually move eligible children off the National Disability Insurance Scheme, with full replacement of NDIS support for this group planned by 2028.
Health Minister Mark Butler has told parents there would be no gap in government support during the change. The Guardian Business reported that Queensland has not signed on as the first phase begins.
The available information does not specify what support Queensland families will receive or when the state might join, leaving their arrangements uncertain.
