The Australian Government is introducing Thriving Kids, a new national approach designed to help children with developmental differences, delays or disabilities receive support earlier in life. The goal is simple: create a system where children and families can access help sooner, more easily and in the environments they already know.
This reform aims to strengthen community-based supports, improve early identification and make it easier for families to find the right help without navigating complicated pathways.
Why Thriving Kids Is Being Introduced
Research found that many children aren’t identified early enough for developmental concerns, even though early support can make a significant difference. Families also reported finding it difficult to access timely services or knowing which professionals to approach. Thriving Kids aims to change this by building a clearer, more connected support system across Australia.
How Thriving Kids Will Support Children and Families
Thriving Kids focuses on children aged 8 and under who need low to moderate support. It will expand access to:
- Child and maternal health services
- GP and community health services
- Early education and school-based supports
- Local community programs and family resources
The aim is to provide help through places families already visit, familiar environments where children feel safe and supported. This aligns well with services we offer at Angels on Wheels, including Allied Health Professionals, Social and Community Participation and family-focused support.
What Is Being Developed Right Now
The Government is currently designing the structure of Thriving Kids in consultation with states, territories, child development experts and families. An advisory group chaired by leading specialists is shaping how the system will be rolled out and how it will connect services nationwide.
Timeline for Thriving Kids
The first stage of services is planned to begin from 1 July 2026, with national expansion continuing over the following 12 months. The goal is to have key supports in place before future reforms begin for children entering school years.
How Thriving Kids Relates to Other Support Systems
Thriving Kids is being created to ensure that children who need community-based and early development supports receive them in a timely, accessible way. It focuses on early pathways and mainstream services while ensuring that children with significant and ongoing support needs continue to receive long-term care through appropriate systems.
For families already accessing support through Angels on Wheels, services such as Support Coordination and Allied Health will continue to play a central role in guiding you through your child’s options.
What This Means for Families
Thriving Kids gives families:
- Earlier identification of developmental differences
- Easier access to community-based services
- A more connected national system
- Additional options outside formal disability systems
- Support that grows with your child from infancy into early school years
It is designed to reduce confusion, minimise wait times and ensure children receive help the moment concerns arise — not months or years later. Angels on Wheels is committed to helping families navigate these changes as more information becomes available.
Need Support or More Guidance?
If you’d like to understand how Thriving Kids may relate to your child’s needs, our team is here to help. Contact us today through our Contact Page or explore our services to see how we can support your family.
