In August 2025, the Australian Government announced the launch of a $2 billion program called “Thriving Kids.” This initiative aims to transition children with mild to moderate autism and developmental delays from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to a new system of “foundational supports.”

While the goal is to provide targeted early intervention, many families are left with more questions than answers following this announcement. Parents are concerned about what will happen to their child’s therapies, whether they will still have choices in their care, and if they will encounter longer waiting lists or increased costs.

Families Are Left in Uncertainty

For parents, stability is crucial. A child’s development relies on consistent support, whether it comes from speech therapy, occupational therapy, or psychological sessions. Currently:

•  Parents are feeling anxious and uncertain. Many families do not know if their child’s current therapy plan will continue or be replaced. Without clarity, it becomes difficult to plan or feel secure about their child’s future.

• Children risk losing progress. Early intervention is effective only when it is continuous and ongoing. Any disruption in services, even for a few months, can result in children losing the progress they have worked hard to achieve.

• Providers are also in a state of uncertainty. NDIS service providers, who have committed their resources to children’s therapies, are unsure how the new system will operate. Without clear guidelines, some programs may close, making it even harder for families to access the help they need.

• Communication has been inadequate. Many families, advocates, and even state governments were not adequately consulted before the announcement. This lack of consultation has left communities feeling unheard and unsupported.

Why This Approach Raises Concerns

Every parent wants the best for their child. While the Thriving Kids program aims to enhance early intervention, there are significant risks that families and service providers are concerned about:

• Loss of Choice and Control: The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) was established to empower families to choose their providers and services. A separate system may not offer the same flexibility, potentially leaving parents with fewer options.

• Unequal Support: Two children with the same diagnosis may receive significantly different levels of support, depending on whether they remain in the NDIS or are transitioned to the new program. This situation could lead to confusion and inequity among families.

• Financial Strain: Some parents are concerned about increased out-of-pocket expenses if foundational supports do not cover the same range of therapies. For families already financially strained, this added burden can be overwhelming.

• Uncertain Long-term Outcomes: If the new system is not fully operational by 2027, children may be at risk of falling through the cracks. The developmental years are crucial, and families cannot afford gaps in care during this critical time.

Looking Ahead

Families living with autism face daily challenges with courage and resilience. What they need most from the system is certainty, stability, and trust.

As service providers, we share these concerns. We believe that children deserve:

• Clear information about which supports will remain in place is essential.
• A smooth transition that avoids gaps in therapy.
• Genuine collaboration between government, providers, and families.
• Children with autism should never be placed in a situation where essential support is uncertain. Any reforms to the NDIS must prioritise families, because when children thrive, our entire community thrives.

Sources

The Guardian – Children with autism to be diverted off NDIS under $2bn program
The Guardian – Disability groups join states in surprise at plan to divert children with autism from NDIS
News.com.au – NDIS autism cuts to hit Australia’s GDP