On 20 August 2025, Minister Mark Butler announced Thriving Kids, a major shift in how children with mild to moderate autism or developmental delays will receive support. This initiative is designed to reduce pressure on the NDIS and offer earlier, more accessible interventions. The model will begin in 2026 and be fully operational by 2027.
So what does this mean for the therapies and support your family relies on today?
At Super Kids Behavioural Consulting, we understand that parents need clarity, especially when it comes to evidence-based care like Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA therapy). Here’s what’s changing and how we can help your child continue to thrive.
Why Thriving Kids Was Introduced
Over the past decade, the NDIS has become stretched. In 2024, nearly 70% of new participants were children diagnosed with autism. One in ten six-year-olds were on the scheme. Many families reported long waitlists, confusing pathways, and difficulties navigating complex funding systems.
Thriving Kids aims to deliver earlier, more appropriate supports through everyday community settings, such as schools, GPs, childcare services, and local providers. It is proposed that the NDIS will remain focused on children with permanent and significant disabilities.
What Is Thriving Kids?
Thriving Kids is a “foundational supports” model, backed by $2 billion in federal funding with additional state contributions. Instead of providing individualised funding packages for every child, the model will coordinate services through trusted community systems.
These services will include:
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Early intervention in schools and early learning centres
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Guidance from GPs and health clinics on developmental support
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Collaboration with local therapy providers
Where Does ABA Therapy Fit In?
For many families, early intervention and ABA therapy have been game changers. ABA is one of the most researched and evidence-based ways to support children with autism. It helps build communication, social skills, independence, and reduces challenging behaviours.
At Super Kids, we deliver tailored ABA programs in homes, schools, and community settings.
How Super Kids Supports Families Through the Change
As Thriving Kids rolls out, many families feel unsure about what services they’ll still be able to access. We’re here to walk alongside you through it all.
Here’s how we help:
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Transition support: We help you determine whether your child stays within NDIS or moves into Thriving Kids
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Advocacy: We push to ensure ABA therapy remains central to your child’s plan
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Flexible service delivery: We adapt, whether you’re using NDIS or foundational supports
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Family-centred coaching: We equip parents to feel confident, not overwhelmed
Thriving Kids is a big change and a new idea. We hope it acheieves the goal to create earlier, fairer, and more sustainable intervention pathways.
At Super Kids, our mission is unchanged. We empower children with autism and developmental delays to reach their full potential through individualised ABA therapy and supportive, family-focused care.
Want to know how we can support your family through this change? Get in touch with us today.