Thriving Kids: A New Pathway for Children with Developmental Differences

Here is what we know so far....

At Cosy Coordination of Support, our mission is to walk alongside families, offering guidance, advocacy, and practical help through our experienced Support Coordination team. Today, we want to share important news that may shape the future of early childhood supports in Australia.


Health and Disability Minister Mark Butler has announced a new national initiative, called “Thriving Kids”, in his address to the National Press Club.


What is the Thriving Kids program?


Launching in July 2026, Thriving Kids is a $2 billion program jointly funded by the federal and state governments.

The program is designed to better support children with mild to moderate developmental differences and autism—without automatically placing them on the NDIS.


Instead, families will be connected to developmentally appropriate early supports such as:

  • 🗣️ Speech therapy
  • ✋ Occupational therapy
  • 🎨 Inclusive playgroups and community programs
  • 👨‍👩‍👧 Family workshops and resources

This new approach aims to give children the right help at the right time—without having to navigate the complexities of the NDIS unless it is truly needed.


Why does this matter for families?


We know that early intervention can make a world of difference. The Thriving Kids program will:

💡 Provide timely support – Services will be easier to access, especially for families who may not meet the criteria for NDIS but still need help.

🌱 Encourage growth – Supports will be flexible, adjusting as children learn and develop.

🤝 Reduce stress on families – Instead of applying for NDIS funding just to access therapies, families will have more options through Thriving Kids.

🧩 Sustain the system – With NDIS enrolments growing quickly, this program helps ease pressure and ensures children with higher support needs continue to get the care they deserve.


How does this fit with existing programs?


Thriving Kids will complement services already available through the National Early Childhood Program (NECP), including:

  • Playconnect+: play-based groups for children aged 0–8
  • ENVISAGE Families: workshops and resources to build family resilience

Together, these supports create a family-centred framework that is practical, accessible, and hopeful.


Timeline to know


  • July 2026 → Thriving Kids begins rolling out
  • Mid-2027 → Adjustments to NDIS access expected, once Thriving Kids is fully established


What this means for you


At Cosy Coordination of Support, we are here to help families navigate change and feel confident about the supports available for their children.

Our Support Coordinators can:
✅ Help you understand if Thriving Kids may be right for your child
✅ Connect you with therapies, playgroups, and family supports
✅ Guide you through NDIS pathways (if required)
✅ Offer ongoing advocacy and emotional support


Final thoughts

The Thriving Kids program has the potential to reshape how we support children with developmental differences in Australia. By focusing on early, flexible, and family-friendly supports, it opens the door to a brighter and more inclusive future.


👉 Want to stay up-to-date with the rollout? Be sure to LIKE and FOLLOW Cosy Coordination Socials.
👉 Not yet part of the Cosy community? Reach out—we’d love to support you and your family.

Because every child deserves the chance to thrive. 🌟