NDIS Reforms: Queensland Families Face Uncertainty Amid ‘Thriving Kids’ Holdout

As the federal government pushes ahead with significant reforms to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), families in Queensland are grappling with a unique layer of uncertainty. The state remains the only one yet to sign up for a new program, “Thriving Kids,” designed to reshape support for children with mild to moderate developmental needs.

Many parents and disability service providers fear that this delay could leave thousands of Queensland children in a critical gap, without crucial support as NDIS eligibility changes.

What is ‘Thriving Kids’ and Who Does it Affect?

The “Thriving Kids” program is a new federal initiative set to be implemented from October this year. It aims to provide early intervention and support for children up to the age of nine who have been diagnosed with mild to moderate autism or other developmental delays.

The goal is for “Thriving Kids” to fully replace NDIS coverage for this group by January 2028. This means that many children currently receiving support through the NDIS will transition to the new state-based system, with the NDIS focusing on individuals with more significant and permanent disability.

Queensland’s Stand: Seeking Clarity on the New Scheme

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has expressed serious concerns about the “Thriving Kids” program, indicating the state will not sign on until more detailed answers are provided. He wants to ensure that any deal protects vulnerable Queenslanders and doesn’t leave them unsupported.

Key questions from Queensland include how “mild to moderate autism” will be defined, and what ongoing support will be available for children once they turn nine and age out of the program.

Ali Kuylaars, whose two children, Isaac, 14, and Arlo, eight, both have autism, is among many parents watching closely. While the prospect of losing NDIS coverage without an alternative is worrying, she supports the state’s cautious approach.

“You can’t remove supports and not have some sort of alternative system in place,” Kuylaars stated, adding that the community lacks clarity on what “Thriving Kids” will look like, what supports it will offer, and how it will be implemented.

Providers Anxious Over Potential Service Gaps

The uncertainty is also creating significant stress for disability service providers. Deejay Egan, Group CEO for DCC Group, which supports about 700 children in Queensland, many of them Indigenous, explained the widespread anxiety.

“There is a lot of uncertainty across the board because if we don’t get an agreement, then, how do we service our participants?” he asked. He also highlighted the challenge for providers who cannot properly advise clients, caregivers, and parents without clear information themselves.

Egan warned that a sudden cut-off of existing NDIS supports in January 2028, without a solid replacement, could lead to Queensland children falling behind. This could also impose greater financial pressure on families and even hinder a child’s ability to engage in education and maintain their health.

Federal Government Urges Queensland to Act

Federal Health Minister Mark Butler countered Queensland’s position, stating that the definition of mild to moderate autism is the result of “collective work by all governments.” He added that a draft definition would be provided to all states and territories “within days.”

Butler emphasized that other jurisdictions have progressed with developing their state programs and finalising implementation plans, knowing the federal funding available to them. He urged Queensland to “get on board too.”

Concerns Over Queensland’s Preparedness

Despite the ongoing discussions, it remains unclear how much practical preparation Queensland has undertaken. In a recent parliamentary estimates hearing, Belinda Drew, the director-general of the department of families, seniors, disability and child services, said that the government’s workforce targets, budgets, and governance arrangements for “Thriving Kids” were “still subject to government consideration.”

Associate Professor Kathy Ellen from the University of Queensland highlighted that the overall reform process feels rushed. She stressed that both federal and state governments have a shared responsibility to resolve these issues, as ultimately, it is families and young people who will struggle with the consequences of ongoing disagreement.

What Happens Next?

The dispute’s resolution before the October implementation date for “Thriving Kids” remains uncertain. While Premier Crisafulli believes a deal will eventually be reached, he insists on getting it “the right way” to avoid leaving vulnerable people in the lurch.

For NDIS participants, families, and providers in Queensland, the immediate future holds continued uncertainty. Staying informed about announcements from both state and federal governments will be crucial. Advocacy groups are also playing a key role in ensuring the voices of those affected are heard.

Hazel Chen

I work in marketing and communications for NDISLocal, helping connect NDIS participants, families, and providers with clear, useful information about the sector. I'm passionate about making the NDIS easier to understand and navigate, and about giving disability service providers a platform to reach the people who need them. If you'd like to know more about anything covered in this post, or you're a provider interested in being featured, feel free to get in touch.