Thriving Kids

On 20 August, the Prime Minister announced a new Thriving Kids program in response to growing numbers of autistic children with developmental delay using NDIS funding. The press release of the speech from Minister Butler outlines the need for changes to the way that services are delivered.

It is unknown how the Thriving Kids program will operate. It is important for therapists, participants, parents/guardians and the early childhood sector to monitor these developments.

Occupational Therapy Australia have posted an OTA response online. This contains further information about reforms within the early childhood sector and provision of health services and other supports. Australian Financial Review discuss concerns.

Further information:

https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-mark-butler-mp/media/speech-from-minister-butler-national-press-club-20-august-2025?language=en

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-08-20/ndis-growth-thriving-kids-autism-mark-butler/105675484 

https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/tighten-the-criteria-autism-accounted-for-70-per-cent-of-new-ndis-participants-in-2024/news-story/739256aeefde04fb189c58b879501fdc

https://otaus.com.au/news/breaking-major-government-announcement-on-new-childrens-early-intervention-services

https://www.afr.com/companies/healthcare-and-fitness/this-thing-is-a-beast-ndis-insiders-speak-out-20250819-p5mo80?

Sandra Kirkwood
Occupational Therapist (Wynnum Manly OT)
m. 0488 624 362 

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