Skip to main content
See every side of every news story
Published loading...Updated

Federal Government Unveils ‘Thriving Kids’ Program to Support Children with Developmental Delays

The $4 billion program will support tens of thousands of children under nine with developmental delays or autism without formal diagnoses, easing pressure on the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

  • On Tuesday at Parliament House, Canberra, Health and Disability Minister Mark Butler unveiled the $4 billion Thriving Kids program, funded jointly by the Albanese government and states and territories over five years.
  • To address diagnostic delays and rising demand, officials designed Thriving Kids so families of children with developmental delays can get support without a formal diagnosis, easing pressure on the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
  • The scheme's design centers on a four-function model guiding delivery through early identification, time-limited supports, allied health professionals, equipment loan pools, and one 'key worker' for care coordination.
  • Advocates warned of teething pains and potential waitlists as the taskforce signalled workforce challenges, while disability organisations flagged funding uncertainties and families, schools and early learning providers face more responsibility.
  • Rollout timing starts from October this year with full operation by January 2028, and officials expect to finalise individual jurisdiction agreements by the end of this month after five months of consultations.
Insights by Ground AI

11 Articles

PerthNowPerthNow
+2 Reposted by 2 other sources
Center

Thriving Kids aims to 'mainstream' disability support

State and federal governments have struck a new deal to reduce the sky-high cost of the NDIS while better supporting young people with mild disabilities.

·City of Perth, Australia
Read Full Article
Think freely.Subscribe and get full access to Ground NewsSubscriptions start at $9.99/yearSubscribe

Bias Distribution

  • 75% of the sources lean Left
75% Left

Factuality Info Icon

To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

Ownership

Info Icon

To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage

The Canberra Times broke the news in Canberra, Australia on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
Too Big Arrow Icon
Sources are mostly out of (0)

Similar News Topics

News
Feed Dots Icon
For You
Search Icon
Search
Blindspot LogoBlindspotLocal