Parents’ Guide to 'Thriving Kids': How the 2026 Changes Affect Your Family
If you are a parent of a young child in Australia, the way you access developmental support is about to change. With the federal government’s confirmation of the ‘Thriving Kids’ rollout beginning October 2026, many families are asking: What does this mean for my child's care? The reforms promise easier access to checks but signal a departure from the NDIS for many.
New Medicare Checks for 3-Year-Olds
One of the most immediate benefits for families is the introduction of new Medicare bulk-billed items. The government is funding comprehensive child development checks specifically for three-year-olds. This aims to catch developmental delays long before a child enters school, removing the financial barrier to early diagnosis. Previously, many parents faced long waitlists or high private fees for these assessments.
Is My Child Being Kicked Off the NDIS?
This is the biggest concern for many. Minister Butler has offered assurances that children currently enrolled in the NDIS will not be immediately removed. However, from January 2028, eligibility rules will tighten. New entrants with "mild to moderate" delays will be directed to the ‘Thriving Kids’ program rather than the NDIS. This means if your child is born in 2026 or later, their pathway to support will likely look very different from the current system.
Support in Schools, Not Just Clinics
The philosophy behind ‘Thriving Kids’ is to bring therapy to the child, rather than making the child go to therapy. Expect to see more speech pathologists and occupational therapists working directly within:
- Early childhood education centres
- Primary schools
- Community health hubs
For parents, this could mean fewer driving trips to private clinics and more integrated support where your child already spends their day. While the transition may be complex, the promise is a system where support is available based on need, not just a diagnosis.
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