Thriving Kids & the NDIS Changes 2026: What Neurodivergent Families Need to Know
If you've been following the news about the NDIS lately, you're probably feeling a mixture of confusion, anxiety, and exhaustion. The federal government's Thriving Kids announcement — the biggest restructure of disability support for young children since the NDIS itself — has left many families scrambling for clear answers.
This is my attempt at a plain-English guide. Not legal advice, not a policy document — just what you actually need to know as a parent navigating this right now.
What Is Thriving Kids?
Thriving Kids is a new national program for children aged 8 and under who have developmental delay or autism and are assessed as having "low to moderate" support needs. The goal is to move these children out of the NDIS and into a new, state-delivered, community-based support model.
The Commonwealth and state governments have committed $4 billion over five years to fund the first phase. In theory, this sounds like more support. In practice, many families are worried about what it means for their child's current plan.
What Does This Mean for Your Child's NDIS Plan?
If your child is currently on the NDIS and is under 8, there are a few things to do right now regardless of what happens next:
Get your child's current plan reviewed and documented carefully. Before any transition happens, make sure you have a clear record of everything your child currently receives — therapies, supports, funding amounts. If your plan is up for renewal, request a review and push for everything your child genuinely needs to be included.
Gather all reports and assessments in one place. Occupational therapy reports, speech pathology assessments, paediatrician letters, school reports — keep copies of everything. If there's a transition process, you'll need this evidence ready.
Join your state's autism or ADHD peak body newsletter. The detail on Thriving Kids is still being worked out, and state-by-state rollout timelines will differ. ADHD Australia, Autism Awareness Australia, and your state's disability peak bodies will have the most up-to-date information as it becomes available.
What If My Child Is Over 8?
If your child is older than 8, Thriving Kids doesn't apply to them directly. Their NDIS plan continues as normal. However, the broader NDIS reforms are ongoing, and it's always worth staying informed through your plan manager or support coordinator.
I'm Overwhelmed. Where Do I Start?
Start with a conversation. Tell your child's current support coordinator or plan manager that you've heard about Thriving Kids and ask what it means specifically for your child's situation. They should be able to give you a clear answer or find out for you.
If you don't have a support coordinator, your local area coordinator (LAC) through the NDIS is the right starting point.
And if you just need someone to talk through what all of this means for your family — that's exactly what Liora is here for.
Liora provides general support and information, not legal or financial advice. For specific NDIS guidance, speak with a registered plan manager or support coordinator.