Thriving Kids: What it is and when it starts

You might have heard some conversations lately about the new “Thriving Kids” program - especially if you’re a parent, carer, teacher, or allied health professional working with children who have developmental needs. But what is it really, how might it help your child, and when is it actually coming into effect?

We’ve broken it down in plain language so you can understand what’s changing and what it might mean for your family.

 

What is the Thriving Kids program?

Thriving Kids is a new national program being developed by the Australian Government to provide early supports for children from birth to 8 years who have developmental delay or autism.

According to the government, the program is designed to offer earlier, more accessible support through mainstream and community settings such as:

• schools
• early childhood education and care
• community health services
• general practice and allied health

The aim is to help children get the right support as early as possible, without families having to navigate complex systems or wait for formal diagnoses.

 

How can Thriving Kids help children in schools?

Thriving Kids places a strong focus on supporting children in everyday environments, including schools. This approach recognises that learning, social development and emotional wellbeing are closely connected.

The program is expected to support children by:

• identifying developmental needs earlier
• supporting communication, social skills and emotional regulation
• helping children participate more confidently in learning and play
• providing guidance and strategies for families and educators
• strengthening collaboration between schools, families and health professionals

Rather than relying solely on individual funding packages, Thriving Kids is intended to build capacity within schools and communities to support children more consistently.

 

How does Thriving Kids fit with the NDIS?

The Australian Government has stated that children with permanent and significant disability will continue to be supported through the NDIS.

Thriving Kids is intended for children with mild to moderate developmental needs, offering early help through community and school-based services. This allows the NDIS to remain focused on children who need more intensive, long-term disability supports.

For families who currently have an NDIS plan, there will be no sudden changes. Existing supports will continue while Thriving Kids is gradually introduced.

 

When is Thriving Kids due to start?

Based on current government information:

• Thriving Kids is expected to begin from October 2026
• The program will be rolled out progressively across Australia
• Changes to how new children access supports are expected to occur over time, rather than all at once
• As planning continues with states, territories and service providers, some details may be refined, but families will be given notice as changes are introduced.

 

What should families and schools do now?

At this stage, families and schools can:

• continue with existing NDIS and school-based supports
• talk with teachers, therapists and support coordinators about future planning
• stay informed as more detail is released by the government
• focus on supporting children’s goals, strengths and participation at school

Keeping records of your child’s progress and support needs can also be helpful as systems evolve.

 

Supporting children to thrive

Thriving Kids represents a shift towards earlier support, delivered closer to where children live and learn. While change can bring uncertainty, the program aims to make it easier for children to access help early — particularly in school settings where they spend much of their time.

 

How Karista can help

At Karista, we’re committed to helping families understand these changes and navigate their options with confidence. We’ll continue to share updates and practical guidance as more information becomes available.

Before the Thriving Kids program starts, Karista can help you with:

• Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP): we can connect you to Psychology services
• Allied health at home: Speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy
• NDIS guidance: Helping families navigate Thriving Kids alongside NDIS plans

If you’d like support understanding how Thriving Kids may affect your child or school, our team is here to help.