There has been a lot of talk this week about Thriving Kids — the federal government’s new program aimed at children aged 0–8 with developmental delay or autism with low to moderate support needs. States and territories have now agreed to match the federal investment, which means it is moving closer to reality for families.
We are watching this closely, because it matters for the children and families we work with every day.
What we do know is that continuity still matters — regardless of which program or pathway a child is supported through. When the same therapist sees a child at home, at school, and in the community over time, small changes get noticed early. Progress in scissor skills at the kitchen table connects to what is happening in the classroom. That kind of joined-up picture takes time to build, and it builds through consistency.
If you are a parent trying to work out what Thriving Kids might mean for your child, or how it sits alongside existing NDIS supports, the NDIA and the Department of Health and Aged Care are the right places to start — not social media, and not us.
General information only. Not personal advice. Speak with your NDIS planner, support coordinator, or allied health provider for advice specific to your situation.
If your child is already accessing OT, has anything changed in how you are thinking about their therapy this year?
