NDIS Thriving Kids Eligibility 2026

Wondering if your child will qualify for the new NDIS Thriving Kids Program in 2026? This guide explains the eligibility rules, age limits, autism and developmental delay criteria, and what families can do now to prepare.

If you’ve been trying to understand NDIS Thriving Kids eligibility, you’re not alone. The changes coming in 2026 have left many parents feeling uncertain, worried, and understandably frustrated.

The announcement hasn’t been easy to follow, and even for people working in the disability and early childhood space, the language around who qualifies under the new NDIS Thriving Kids Program has caused confusion and concern.

According to current information, children with “permanent and significant disability” will remain on the NDIS, while children with mild to moderate developmental delay or autism may move into the new Thriving Kids Program. This wording has been difficult for many families to hear, because autism is a permanent disability. It doesn’t disappear with age or support, and for many parents, these changes feel invalidating when their child’s challenges are lifelong and very real.

This article explains what’s currently known about NDIS Thriving Kids eligibility, how it may affect families, and what you can start doing now to prepare.

Who Is Eligible for the Thriving Kids Program?

Children Aged 0–8

The Thriving Kids Program is designed specifically for early childhood, meaning children from birth to 8 years old. Once a child turns 9, they’ll no longer fall within the eligibility age range for the Thriving Kids program.

Children with Developmental Delay

Children described as having mild to moderate developmental delay may be supported through the Thriving Kids Program rather than through the NDIS. These terms come directly from the government’s wording and have not yet been clearly defined. This doesn’t mean their challenges are insignificant. It simply reflects the government’s current view that these children can be supported through foundational and community-based services rather than a full NDIS plan.

Children with Autism

The same applies for children described as having mild to moderate autism. This has been one of the most challenging and confusing aspects of the announcement, because autism is a lifelong condition and every child’s experience is unique. While some children may need lighter supports at certain stages, others require ongoing, intensive therapy. Until the government provides clear definitions, it remains uncertain how these distinctions will be made or what criteria will apply

Children with Permanent and Significant Disability

The government has said that children with permanent and significant disabilities will remain supported under the NDIS rather than being moved into Thriving Kids.

This has created some confusion for families of children with autism, who rightly recognise that autism is permanent. It’s not about the diagnosis itself, but how the child’s functional support needs are assessed.

As professionals, many of us share parents’ concerns about how these decisions will be made and how to ensure children continue receiving the right level of support to reach their potential and have the same opportunities to thrive.

Quick checklist — Your child may be eligible for Thriving Kids if:

They are aged between 0 and 8.
They are described as having mild to moderate developmental delay or autism under current NDIS terminology.
Their needs are expected to be met through community or foundational supports rather than an individual NDIS plan.

(Note: these terms are drawn directly from NDIS language and may change as more information becomes available.)

What Does “Mild to Moderate” Mean?

This is one of the most unclear parts of the announcement. There is currently no published framework for how “mild” or “moderate” will be defined under the Thriving Kids Program.

It’s likely that decisions will focus less on a diagnosis label and more on a child’s daily functioning. For example, a child may need extra help with communication, sensory regulation, or learning routines, but not require intensive one-to-one therapy every week.

The intention appears to be that Thriving Kids will focus on practical, family-centred supports such as parent coaching, school strategies, and short-term therapy programs, rather than ongoing NDIS funding.

Many parents and professionals are hoping for clearer guidance before the program begins, to make sure children don’t fall through the cracks.

What Happens When a Child Turns Nine?

This is a question many parents are already asking, and it’s an important one.

At this stage, it’s not fully clear what happens when a child reaches the age limit for the Thriving Kids Program. The current understanding is that children who still require ongoing support after turning nine may be reassessed to determine whether they meet NDIS eligibility criteria at that time.

This could mean that some children will transition to NDIS plans, while others may continue receiving supports through schools, community programs, or health services. Families will need more information from the government about how this process will work to ensure continuity of care.

For now, it’s best to keep documentation and progress notes up to date, as these will be important if a reassessment is needed in future.

Timeline for Eligibility

1 July 2026: Thriving Kids begins rolling out across Australia.
12-month ramp-up: A gradual transition period where families start accessing foundational supports through health, education, and community services.
Mid-2027: Broader NDIS access changes are expected, once Thriving Kids is in place nationwide.

If your child already has an NDIS plan, they will continue under their existing arrangements until any reassessment occurs. The government has stated that no child will be left without supports during this process.

What If My Child Isn’t Eligible?

If your child doesn’t meet the criteria for the Thriving Kids Program, it doesn’t mean they will miss out on support.

Children with higher or more complex support needs are expected to remain on the NDIS.
You can continue to access services through schools, community health, or private therapy.
Keep your reports and assessments current, as eligibility criteria may change closer to 2026.

It’s understandable to feel worried, especially when the details are still being worked out. For now, focus on gathering information, maintaining your child’s existing supports, and staying connected with trusted professionals who can help you navigate any changes ahead.

How Families Can Prepare Now

Keep all reports and assessments from therapists, schools, and medical professionals.
Track your child’s daily routines and challenges, including examples of what works well.
Build consistent routines that promote independence and confidence.
Ask questions early so you feel ready when new information is released.
Stay informed through reliable updates, newsletters, and professional organisations.

FAQs: NDIS Thriving Kids Eligibility

When does Thriving Kids start?
The program is set to begin on 1 July 2026, with services rolling out gradually over the following year.

What age group is covered?
Children aged 0–8 years will be supported through Thriving Kids. Once a child turns nine, they will move out of this program’s age range.

Does my child with autism qualify for the NDIS Thriving Kids Program?
According to current NDIS wording, some children described as having mild to moderate autism may be supported through Thriving Kids. These terms haven’t yet been defined, and many families and professionals are seeking clarity to ensure all children receive the right level of support.

What happens when my child turns nine?
Children who still need support after turning nine may be reassessed to determine whether they meet NDIS eligibility criteria at that time. Some may transition to an NDIS plan, while others may continue receiving support through health, education, or community systems.

What if my child already has an NDIS plan?
Your child’s current NDIS plan will continue until review. Any future changes will include transition supports to ensure no child is left without assistance.

How will “mild to moderate” be decided?
Specific criteria have not yet been published. It is expected to focus on functional needs and the level of support required, not only the diagnosis itself.

Next Steps

The Thriving Kids Program is still being developed, and many details are yet to be finalised. Understanding the basics of NDIS Thriving Kids eligibility can help you prepare, ask informed questions, and advocate for your child’s needs.

If you’d like to understand more about how the new program will work and what to expect, you can read my full guide: NDIS Thriving Kids Program (2025–2026): What We Know So Far + How to Prepare

A Note from Me: Supporting You and Your Child at Home

If you’re feeling uncertain about these changes, please know that you’re not alone. Many families are still waiting for clearer information about the NDIS Thriving Kids Program and what it means for their child. The most important thing right now is to keep focusing on what you already do so well: supporting your child’s growth, building on their strengths, and helping them feel confident and capable in daily life.

If you’re looking for practical ways to support your child at home, you’ll find a range of occupational therapy printables and child development tools here at Kids Therapy Resources. Explore visual schedules, sensory strategies, fine motor worksheets, and emotional regulation activities designed to help children with autism, ADHD, and developmental delays learn and thrive in everyday routines.

If there’s something specific you would like more support with, such as emotional regulation, handwriting, sensory play, or another area your child finds tricky, please let me know. I am always happy to create and share new OT resources that meet real needs and support families like yours.

The fact that you’re here right now means you’re doing an incredible job, and your constant love and care for your child makes all the difference. Every small step counts toward helping your child reach their potential.

NDIS Thriving Kids Eligibility 2026: Essential Guide for Parents