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Australia invests 2 billion in Thriving Kids
Government to fund early intervention services
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By Peter Clark (Senior Editor, Autism Info Center) Wednesday 15th April 2026 |
The Australian Government has announced a substantial investment of two billion dollars in a new national program called Thriving Kids.
This initiative is designed to provide streamlined access to early intervention services for children with developmental delays and autism.
The program aims to move away from rigid funding models and toward a more integrated approach that involves schools and community health clinics.
By providing support earlier in a child's life, the government hopes to improve long-term outcomes and reduce the pressure on existing disability insurance schemes.
Allied health professionals, such as occupational therapists and speech pathologists, will play a key role in delivering these services.
The announcement follows a period of consultation with experts and advocacy groups who have called for more accessible and equitable support for families.
While some concerns remain about the transition to the new system, the funding represents a significant commitment to neurodivergent children.
The goal is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive through timely and effective intervention.
This reform is part of a broader effort to make the national disability support system more sustainable and effective for all families.
Source: OTA (Australia)
Further reading, listening and viewing...
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