FAMILIES raising children with developmental delay or autism will gain earlier and easier access to support under the Federal Government’s $4 billion Thriving Kids program, set to begin rolling out later this year.
The landmark initiative aims to support children under nine with developmental delay or autism and low to moderate support needs, delivering services earlier and in familiar community settings such as homes, childcare centres, preschools and schools.
For Ipswich families, the announcement has been welcomed as a long-overdue shift toward early intervention, although some remain cautious about whether the system can meet demand.
Emma Harrison, whose six-year-old son Liam has autism, said navigating assessments, waitlists and fragmented services had been exhausting.
“Knowing support will be available earlier and in places we already trust – like home or school – gives us hope Liam won’t miss critical developmental opportunities,” she said.
The focus on early intervention reflects evidence showing that timely, tailored support can significantly improve outcomes for children with developmental needs.
Michael Tran, whose three-year-old daughter is showing developmental delays, said the family-centred approach would make a meaningful difference.
“Having support come to familiar places like our preschool or home makes a huge difference,” he said.
“It feels like the system is finally being built around families, not paperwork.”
Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said the release of the Thriving Kids expert advisory group report would give families greater clarity and certainty.
“This confirms that Thriving Kids is the most appropriate model of care for children under nine with developmental delay and/or autism and low to moderate support needs, outside the NDIS,” he said.
Mr Neumann said children with permanent and significant disability – including those with high support needs – would continue to be supported through the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
“The Government has listened to parents, health professionals, disability advocates, educators and states,” he said.
“This will ensure children and their parents here in Blair are given the support they need to thrive and move into school age.”
However, experts and advocates have warned that challenges remain, particularly around workforce capacity and coordination with existing disability services.
Paediatrician Sarah Collins said early intervention was only effective if enough trained professionals were available.
“There’s a real risk demand could outstrip supply, especially in regional and outer-metropolitan areas,” she said.
“Without enough staff, families may still face long waits or fragmented services.”
The Thriving Kids rollout will begin in October, with full implementation expected by January 2028.
Funding will be split evenly between the Commonwealth and states and territories, with $1.4 billion of the federal share allocated directly to frontline service delivery.
While the program marks a significant shift toward early, community-based support, families say its success will ultimately depend on delivery.
