What is Thriving Kids?

The Australian Government has announced Thriving Kids, a new national early intervention program for children aged 0-8 years with developmental delay and/or autism who have low to moderate support needs.

To see if your child may be eligible, read more at Thriving Kids Connect WA.

The program aims to help children participate more fully in everyday life by providing practical, family-centred support that builds on each child’s strengths.

For TSH families, Thriving Kids represents a new pathway to access early supports and services outside of the NDIS.

When will Thriving Kids begin?

Thriving Kids will commence from 1 October 2026, with a phased national rollout continuing until 1 January 2028.

What supports will Thriving Kids provide?

Operating outside of the NDIS, Thriving Kids is designed to support children in their early years through accessible, evidence-based services and supports.

The program focuses on providing practical, family-centred assistance that helps children build skills and participate in everyday activities at home, in the community, and in educational settings.

Does my child need a diagnosis?

No. Children aged 8 years and under do not need a formal diagnosis to access Thriving Kids supports.

What does this mean for children currently receiving, or entering, the NDIS?

Current NDIS eligibility arrangements for children aged 0-8 years will remain unchanged until 31 December 2027.

From 1 January 2028, children with developmental delay and low to moderate support needs will receive support through Thriving Kids rather than the NDIS.

What about children with hearing loss?

Based on the information currently available, NDIS access is not expected to change for children with a diagnosed permanent hearing loss.

As further details become available, TSH will continue to keep families informed.

Will TSH offer Thriving Kids services?

TSH is actively monitoring Thriving Kids funding and grant opportunities as they emerge and hopes to deliver Thriving Kids services to families across Western Australia in the future.

We will share updates with our community as more information becomes available.

Have questions?

If you are a current TSH family and have questions about how Thriving Kids may impact your child, please email ndis@tsh.org.au.

If your child is not currently enrolled with TSH, or you are interested in accessing services through our private clinic, please complete our enquiry form.

Helpful links

Australian Government: https://www.health.gov.au/thrivingkids?language=en

Thriving Kids Connect WA: https://www.uplyft.org.au/programs/thriving-kids-connect-wa

WA Government: https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-communities/thriving-kids

Please note: Information about Thriving Kids is continuing to evolve as the program is rolled out nationally. The information provided here is based on current announcements and may change as further details become available.

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