News & Updates

Important News for Families: Changes to NDIS and the New Thriving Kids Program

The government has just announced a major change for families with young children (under 9) who have mild to moderate autism or developmental delays.

What’s Changing?

• Starting July 2026, the new “Thriving Kids” program will provide support for children with mild to moderate autism or developmental needs.

• By mid-2027, most children in this group will no longer receive support through the NDIS. Instead, help will come from local community services: GPs, early learning centres, schools, and some new Medicare-funded therapy.

• The NDIS will focus on children with profound or lifelong disabilities.

Who Will Be Affected?

• Children under 9 with mild or moderate levels of autism or developmental difference.

• Children already on the NDIS can stay for now, but some may move to the new program after review.

• Families of children with significant, ongoing needs that greatly affect daily life can still access the NDIS as usual.

What Do ‘Mild’ and ‘Moderate’ Autism Mean?

• Mild Autism: Children may need some support with social skills, communication, or behaviour, but can often take part in community, school, or play activities with a little extra help. They might prefer routines, find big crowds or noise stressful, or need help understanding social rules. Daily life is only a little impacted; the child can often manage with guidance from parents or teachers.

• Moderate Autism: Kids may need regular, noticeable support in everyday life. They may find it much harder to communicate, make friends, or cope with changes. They may rely on routines or special supports at school or home, and sometimes need therapy to help with daily living skills.

• Children with profound autism often need constant support for basic needs and are not affected by these changes—they keep full NDIS access.

How Will Decisions Be Made?

• The government will use updated guidelines to decide who remains on the NDIS, based on the level of support needed, not just a diagnosis.

• Assessments will consider how much help a child needs each day.

Key Dates:

• July 2026: Thriving Kids program starts.

• Mid-2027: NDIS access changes for children with mild to moderate needs are finalised.

How We Can Help You:

At EB Kids & Youth, we know these changes may feel worrying. We are here to guide and support families through every step, with:

• Personalised advice and clear information on what these changes mean

• Guidance on what support your child might be eligible for in the future

• Parent info sessions and practical workshops

• Advocacy and help transitioning into Thriving Kids or community supports

Questions? Need support? Reach out to us at any time. Our team is committed to ensuring every family understands these changes, and that each child continues to thrive—no matter what.

What Can You Do Now to Prepare?

We know these changes may create uncertainty, but there are positive steps you can take now to feel more prepared and supported:

1. Take a Quick NDIS Readiness Check:

• Review your child’s current NDIS plan. Is autism their primary diagnosis?

• Think about how much support your child needs in daily life—do they need just a little help (mild), regular but not constant help (moderate), or significant ongoing support (profound)?

• Gather recent assessments or school/therapy reports to help clarify your child’s needs.

2. Explore Future Options:

• If your child has level 1 (mild) or level 2 (moderate) autism and may no longer be eligible for NDIS funding, start looking at mainstream and community options:

• Medicare-funded allied health (e.g., speech, OT, psychology)

• School-based supports or inclusion programs

• Self-funded private therapy

• Local early childhood or community services

3. Stay Informed & Plan Ahead:

Book a chat with EB Kids & Youth—we can review your situation, answer your questions, and help you plan the next steps.

• Join one of our info sessions or webinars about the changes.

• Make a list of your child’s best supports and consider which can continue outside of NDIS if needed.

4. Reach Out Early

• Don’t wait until the changes come through—talk with us now. We’re here to help you find the right strategies, services, and funding options for your child, no matter what.