Thriving Kids Program Delayed by Three Months
30 Jan 2026
The $2 billion program is designed to support young children with mild-to-moderate developmental delays or autism and take some pressure off the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Of the total, $1.4 billion will go directly to the states and territories.
“Thriving Kids will start this year, with full implementation expected by 1 January 2028,” the Prime Minister said.
Mixed reactions from GPs
Dr Tim Jones, RACGP Chair for Child and Young Person’s Health, said he had mixed feelings about the delay.
Getting the program right is crucial so families can benefit from early intervention,” he said.
“But at the same time, many families are missing out on support under the current system. If the rollout is delayed, we need to ensure the program is fully prepared and actually provides the help children need.”
Health Minister Mark Butler said both levels of government have the money ready to fund the program. He added that Thriving Kids will help children who currently fall in the “messy middle”—those who don’t meet NDIS thresholds but still need support.
Extra hospital funding
The national cabinet also agreed to provide an extra $25 billion over five years for state and territory hospitals, bringing total funding to nearly $220 billion. The Prime Minister said this will help reduce pressure on hospitals, aged care, and the NDIS.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: RACGP / newsGP
