08 September 2026
From October you will have a referral option for young children with developmental concerns, and they will not need a diagnosis to access it.
Thriving Kids starts from October 2026, providing support for children aged 8 and under who need extra help with their development.
Who it is for
Thriving Kids focuses on children aged 8 and under with developmental delay and/or autism who have low to moderate needs, along with their families, carers and kin. Children will not need a diagnosis to get support.
What it provides
- Information and advice about child development, developmental delay and autism
- Help to identify developmental needs early
- Help for families to find the right supports
- Programs for families that support their child’s development
- Targeted supports, such as allied health, for children and families who need them
When supports become available
Supports will increase gradually, with the full rollout complete by 1 January 2028.
From October 2026, families will be able to access a national Digital Hub with evidence-based information and resources, and a national phoneline providing advice on child development or behaviour.
The Medicare Healthy Kids Check delivered by GPs at age 3 will be available from 1 November. Further information will be shared with GPs through the usual channels.
What this means for the NDIS
There are no changes to how people apply for and access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) until 1 January 2028. Thriving Kids supports will be available before changes to NDIS access begin, so families can be connected to help in the meantime.
Find out more about Thriving Kids: Thriving Kids | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
