If you're wondering whether Thriving Kids will apply to your family, here's what we know so far about who it's designed for.
The three things that matter
Based on Government information, Thriving Kids is intended for children who meet all three:
- Age: 8 years and under.
- Developmental profile: developmental delay and/or autism.
- Support needs: low-to-moderate.
What “low-to-moderate support needs” means
This is the part families find hardest to self-assess, and honestly, the exact way needs will be identified and triaged is still being finalised by governments. Broadly, children with permanent and significant disability or high support needs are expected to remain with the NDIS, while those with developing, changing or lighter-touch needs are the focus of Thriving Kids. If your child's situation feels borderline, that's exactly the kind of case where getting professional guidance helps.
Do I need a diagnosis?
One of the aims of Thriving Kids is to let families access early support without needing a formal diagnosis first — a welcome change, since waiting for assessments has long delayed help. The precise access process is still being confirmed.
Common questions
What age does Thriving Kids cover?
Children aged 8 years and under, with developmental delay and/or autism and low-to-moderate support needs.
Do I need an autism diagnosis for Thriving Kids?
A key aim is to let families access support without needing a diagnosis first. The exact access arrangements are still being finalised by governments.
Let's help your child be heard
Send a referral in a couple of minutes — families and professionals are both welcome. We'll be in touch within 24–48 hours.