If you’ve been researching the new Thriving Kids program for your child with autism, you’re probably feeling a mix of hope and confusion right now. The good news? This $2 billion program represents a significant step forward in supporting children with autism and developmental delays. The challenging news? The program won’t actually launch until July 1, 2026, which means you can’t access it yet.

But don’t let that discourage you. While we wait for the official launch, there are crucial steps you can take right now to prepare your family and ensure you’re ready when applications open. As parents ourselves, we understand how overwhelming it can feel when your child needs support and you’re trying to navigate an ever-changing system.

Let’s walk through exactly what you need to know and do to position your family for success when Thriving Kids becomes available.

Why Choose Child Therapy at Inspire Health and Medical?

We offer child therapy delivered by caring psychologists in Croydon, with minimal wait times and flexible, self-directed sessions. No referral needed. Your child’s needs guide the plan, and we tailor support across autism assessments, ADHD assessments, and family-focused care.

Step 1: Understand What Thriving Kids Actually Is (And Isn’t)

Before diving into preparation, it’s essential to understand what this program offers. Thriving Kids is designed specifically for children aged 8 and under who have mild to moderate autism or developmental delays. This isn’t a replacement for the NDIS – it’s a complementary system that recognizes not every child needs the intensive, long-term support structure that NDIS provides.

The program emerged from recognition that around one in five young children experience developmental delays or autism, mostly at mild to moderate levels. Rather than funneling all these children through NDIS, Thriving Kids aims to provide appropriate foundational supports through mainstream services like schools, community health centers, and existing therapy providers.

Key differences from NDIS:

• Delivered through Medicare and other government programs, not NDIS funding
• Focus on early intervention and foundational skills
• Integrated with mainstream services rather than separate specialist support
• Designed for children who may not meet current NDIS eligibility criteria

If your child already has significant needs and receives NDIS support, they’ll continue with their current arrangements. Thriving Kids targets children who fall into that gap between needing some support but not qualifying for comprehensive NDIS services.

What Is a Child Autism Assessment?

A child autism assessment explores your child’s strengths, challenges, and support needs using evidence-based tools, observations, and clinical interviews. It helps you and your care team plan child therapy that fits your family. Learn more about our ADHD and Autism assessments here: ADHD & Autism assessments at Inspire Health and Medical.

Step 2: Start Building Your Documentation Portfolio Now

One of the most valuable things you can do right now is create a comprehensive record of your child’s needs, progress, and current supports. When Thriving Kids applications open, having organized documentation will make the process much smoother.

Essential documents to gather:

• All developmental assessments and reports from pediatricians, psychologists, or therapists
• School reports highlighting your child’s strengths and areas needing support
• Any previous therapy records showing what interventions have been tried
• Current NDIS plans (if applicable) and provider reports
• Medical records related to your child’s autism diagnosis

Create both physical and digital copies. Store them in clearly labeled folders so you can easily access specific information when needed. Consider creating a simple timeline document that outlines your child’s developmental journey – this gives assessors a clear picture of your child’s history and progress.

Don’t have all these documents yet? Start the process now. Book assessments with qualified professionals who can provide the comprehensive reports you’ll need. This also gives you valuable insights into your child’s current needs and appropriate interventions.

About Our Psychologists in Croydon

Our psychologists in Croydon provide compassionate, professional child therapy and collaborate with schools and allied health. We prioritise safety, privacy, inclusiveness, and neurodiversity-affirming care.

Step 3: Strengthen Your Current Support Network

Many of the therapists, educators, and support workers currently helping your child will likely work across both NDIS and Thriving Kids systems. Maintaining strong relationships with these professionals ensures continuity of care regardless of which program your child accesses.

If your child currently receives NDIS support, don’t make any sudden changes. The transition won’t happen immediately, and existing supports will continue during the changeover period. Use this time to discuss the upcoming changes with your current providers and understand how they’re preparing.

Questions to ask your current providers:

• How are they planning to adapt their services for Thriving Kids?
• What additional training or certifications are they pursuing?
• How will they help families navigate the transition?
• What documentation do they recommend gathering?

If you’re not currently receiving formal support but suspect your child might benefit from Thriving Kids, consider connecting with professionals now. Early relationships make future transitions much smoother, and you’ll gain valuable insights into your child’s needs.

Step 4: Stay Connected to Official Information Channels

With program details still being finalized, staying informed through official channels is crucial. Misinformation spreads quickly in parent groups and social media, so focus on reliable sources.

Official sources to monitor:

• Department of Health and Aged Care announcements
• Your state’s health department communications
• Updates from the Thriving Kids Advisory Group
• Information from established autism and disability organizations
• Official government guide and updates: Department of Health and Aged Care – Thriving Kids initiative

Set up Google Alerts for “Thriving Kids program” and related terms so you receive notifications when new information is published. Join official email lists rather than relying solely on social media groups where information can become distorted.

Many therapy providers and disability organizations are also creating information sessions about the transition. Attend these when possible – they often provide clearer explanations than written materials alone.

How to Book a Child Therapy Session

Booking is simple. No referral needed. You can call our intake team or use our online contact page to request a child therapy session or autism/ADHD assessments: Book or contact Inspire Health and Medical.

Step 5: Create Your Transition Action Plan

While you wait for the program to launch, create a clear action plan that outlines what you’ll do once applications open. This reduces stress and ensures you don’t miss important deadlines or requirements.

Your action plan should include:

• List of documents you’ll need (refer to Step 2)
• Contact information for current providers who can support your application
• Questions you want to ask during the assessment process
• Backup plans if your child doesn’t qualify or if there are waiting lists
• Timeline for completing any outstanding assessments or reports

Consider creating a simple checklist you can work through systematically. This prevents the overwhelming feeling that often comes with navigating new systems.

Also, think about your family’s broader needs during this transition. Will you need time off work for appointments? Do you have reliable childcare for siblings during assessment sessions? Planning these practical elements now reduces stress later.

What Happens Between Now and July 2026?

The government has committed to releasing detailed eligibility criteria, application processes, and service descriptions well before the July 2026 launch date. Expect more concrete information to emerge throughout 2026 as the launch approaches.

During this waiting period, focus on supporting your child’s current needs rather than putting everything on hold for Thriving Kids. Early intervention remains crucial, and many of the skills and strategies your child develops now will benefit them regardless of which support system they eventually access.

If you’re in the Croydon area and need support navigating your child’s current needs, our team at Inspire Health and Medical understands the complexities families face. We provide comprehensive assessments and support for children with autism and can help you prepare for whatever support system best serves your child’s needs.

The transition to Thriving Kids represents a significant shift in how we support children with autism and developmental delays. While the wait can feel frustrating, use this time productively. Gather your documentation, strengthen your support networks, and create clear plans for moving forward.

Remember, this isn’t about reducing services – it’s about ensuring every child receives appropriate support tailored to their specific needs. By preparing thoroughly now, you’re setting your child up for success regardless of which system ultimately provides their support.

Your child’s journey is unique, and the right support system will help them thrive. Stay informed, stay prepared, and remember that you’re not navigating this alone.

Book a child therapy session with our psychologists in Croydon today.

This article is intended for general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified health professional or refer to the official government resources for your specific circumstances.

If you’ve been researching the new Thriving Kids program for your child with autism, you’re probably feeling a mix of hope and confusion right now. The good news? This $2 billion program represents a significant step forward in supporting children with autism and developmental delays. The challenging news? The program won’t actually launch until July 1, 2026, which means you can’t access it yet.

But don’t let that discourage you. While we wait for the official launch, there are crucial steps you can take right now to prepare your family and ensure you’re ready when applications open. As parents ourselves, we understand how overwhelming it can feel when your child needs support and you’re trying to navigate an ever-changing system.

Let’s walk through exactly what you need to know and do to position your family for success when Thriving Kids becomes available.

Step 1: Understand What Thriving Kids Actually Is (And Isn’t)

Before diving into preparation, it’s essential to understand what this program offers. Thriving Kids is designed specifically for children aged 8 and under who have mild to moderate autism or developmental delays. This isn’t a replacement for the NDIS – it’s a complementary system that recognizes not every child needs the intensive, long-term support structure that NDIS provides.

The program emerged from recognition that around one in five young children experience developmental delays or autism, mostly at mild to moderate levels. Rather than funneling all these children through NDIS, Thriving Kids aims to provide appropriate foundational supports through mainstream services like schools, community health centers, and existing therapy providers.

Key differences from NDIS:

• Delivered through Medicare and other government programs, not NDIS funding
• Focus on early intervention and foundational skills
• Integrated with mainstream services rather than separate specialist support
• Designed for children who may not meet current NDIS eligibility criteria

If your child already has significant needs and receives NDIS support, they’ll continue with their current arrangements. Thriving Kids targets children who fall into that gap between needing some support but not qualifying for comprehensive NDIS services.

Step 2: Start Building Your Documentation Portfolio Now

One of the most valuable things you can do right now is create a comprehensive record of your child’s needs, progress, and current supports. When Thriving Kids applications open, having organized documentation will make the process much smoother.

Essential documents to gather:

• All developmental assessments and reports from pediatricians, psychologists, or therapists
• School reports highlighting your child’s strengths and areas needing support
• Any previous therapy records showing what interventions have been tried
• Current NDIS plans (if applicable) and provider reports
• Medical records related to your child’s autism diagnosis

Create both physical and digital copies. Store them in clearly labeled folders so you can easily access specific information when needed. Consider creating a simple timeline document that outlines your child’s developmental journey – this gives assessors a clear picture of your child’s history and progress.

Don’t have all these documents yet? Start the process now. Book assessments with qualified professionals who can provide the comprehensive reports you’ll need. This also gives you valuable insights into your child’s current needs and appropriate interventions.

Step 3: Strengthen Your Current Support Network

Many of the therapists, educators, and support workers currently helping your child will likely work across both NDIS and Thriving Kids systems. Maintaining strong relationships with these professionals ensures continuity of care regardless of which program your child accesses.

If your child currently receives NDIS support, don’t make any sudden changes. The transition won’t happen immediately, and existing supports will continue during the changeover period. Use this time to discuss the upcoming changes with your current providers and understand how they’re preparing.

Questions to ask your current providers:

• How are they planning to adapt their services for Thriving Kids?
• What additional training or certifications are they pursuing?
• How will they help families navigate the transition?
• What documentation do they recommend gathering?

If you’re not currently receiving formal support but suspect your child might benefit from Thriving Kids, consider connecting with professionals now. Early relationships make future transitions much smoother, and you’ll gain valuable insights into your child’s needs.

 

Step 4: Stay Connected to Official Information Channels

With program details still being finalized, staying informed through official channels is crucial. Misinformation spreads quickly in parent groups and social media, so focus on reliable sources.

Official sources to monitor:

• Department of Health and Aged Care announcements
• Your state’s health department communications
• Updates from the Thriving Kids Advisory Group
• Information from established autism and disability organizations
• Official government guide and updates: Department of Health and Aged Care – Thriving Kids initiative

Set up Google Alerts for “Thriving Kids program” and related terms so you receive notifications when new information is published. Join official email lists rather than relying solely on social media groups where information can become distorted.

Many therapy providers and disability organizations are also creating information sessions about the transition. Attend these when possible – they often provide clearer explanations than written materials alone.

Step 5: Create Your Transition Action Plan

While you wait for the program to launch, create a clear action plan that outlines what you’ll do once applications open. This reduces stress and ensures you don’t miss important deadlines or requirements.

Your action plan should include:

• List of documents you’ll need (refer to Step 2)
• Contact information for current providers who can support your application
• Questions you want to ask during the assessment process
• Backup plans if your child doesn’t qualify or if there are waiting lists
• Timeline for completing any outstanding assessments or reports

Consider creating a simple checklist you can work through systematically. This prevents the overwhelming feeling that often comes with navigating new systems.

Also, think about your family’s broader needs during this transition. Will you need time off work for appointments? Do you have reliable childcare for siblings during assessment sessions? Planning these practical elements now reduces stress later.

What Happens Between Now and July 2026?

The government has committed to releasing detailed eligibility criteria, application processes, and service descriptions well before the July 2026 launch date. Expect more concrete information to emerge throughout 2026 as the launch approaches.

During this waiting period, focus on supporting your child’s current needs rather than putting everything on hold for Thriving Kids. Early intervention remains crucial, and many of the skills and strategies your child develops now will benefit them regardless of which support system they eventually access.

If you’re in the Croydon area and need support navigating your child’s current needs, our team at Inspire Health and Medical understands the complexities families face. We provide comprehensive assessments and support for children with autism and can help you prepare for whatever support system best serves your child’s needs.

The transition to Thriving Kids represents a significant shift in how we support children with autism and developmental delays. While the wait can feel frustrating, use this time productively. Gather your documentation, strengthen your support networks, and create clear plans for moving forward.

Remember, this isn’t about reducing services – it’s about ensuring every child receives appropriate support tailored to their specific needs. By preparing thoroughly now, you’re setting your child up for success regardless of which system ultimately provides their support.

Your child’s journey is unique, and the right support system will help them thrive. Stay informed, stay prepared, and remember that you’re not navigating this alone.

This article is intended for general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified health professional or refer to the official government resources for your specific circumstances.