Ensuring access for our ‘Thriving Kids’
Thriving Kids and physiotherapy: current state of play and advocacy
Thriving Kids represents the most significant reform to early childhood disability and developmental supports since the introduction of the NDIS.
The initiative is a national model for supporting children aged 0–8 with developmental delay and/or autism with low to moderate needs outside the NDIS, delivered largely through state/territory systems with services expected from 1 October 2026 and full rollout by 1 January 2028.
The APA supports the intent of Thriving Kids. Earlier identification, family-centered care, needs-based access without diagnostic barriers, and supports delivered in everyday settings align strongly with evidence-based practice and long-standing APA advocacy.
However, implementation will be critical. To succeed, Thriving Kids must recognise the essential role of physiotherapy, including the paediatric physiotherapy workforce and build capacity across the system; not simply redistribute demand across already stretched services. Without this, there is potential for fragmented pathways and reduced access in some communities.
The role of physiotherapy in Thriving Kids
Paediatric physiotherapists play an essential role in supporting children with developmental delay and/or autism. They help identify developmental concerns early, support children’s movement and participation, and work with families to build confidence, capacity, and readiness for childcare, preschool, and school.
Many families already rely on paediatric physiotherapists for evidence-based developmental delay and autism supports. This includes physiotherapists working in private practice, community settings, and multidisciplinary teams – this workforce is already established, geographically distributed, and delivering care across Australia.
In many regional, rural, and outer-metropolitan communities, private practice physiotherapists are a core part of local service capacity. Excluding this workforce from Thriving Kids would risk reducing access for children and families who already face barriers to timely care.
The APA is advocating for a practical, inclusive commissioning model that reflects the workforce and services already available in local communities. Thriving Kids must enable children and families to access the right support, at the right time and in the right place.
What’s next
The Federal Government will begin rolling out Thriving Kids services through states and territories from 1 October 2026, ahead of changes to NDIS access arrangements 1 January 2028.
Each state and territory will determine its own implementation model, including how services are commissioned and delivered. This will likely result in variation in timing, commissioning approaches, and access pathways across jurisdictions, particularly in early phases. This means expressions of interest and consultation processes may occur at different times across jurisdictions.
The APA will continue to monitor national and state-based developments and keep members informed as opportunities for engagement arise.
APA members are encouraged to stay connected through APA updates and PhysioHub as this reform progresses.
Contact us
Have a case study or insights to share on your experience ahead of the Thriving Kids rollout?
Email the APA Media and Public Relations team at media@australian.physio.
Member experiences continue to inform and strengthen this work.