The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Disability has today released its report into the inquiry into the Thriving Kids Initiative.

Media release issue date: Monday, 22 December 2025

The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Disability has today released its report into the inquiry into the Thriving Kids Initiative. Committee Chair, Dr Mike Freelander MP, said, 'the ideals of the NDIS such as independence, choice, dignity, equity and inclusion, are important. However the NDIS was rolled out with several structural flaws which continue to reduce the effectiveness of the scheme, both in terms of its budget efficiency and providing support, particularly for young children.' 'We acknowledge that the announcement of the Thriving Kids initiative caused many families, carers and providers concern. The Committee’s aim throughout this inquiry was to ensure that moving forward every child who requires foundational supports is protected, included, and provided appropriate and quality services in the design of the Thriving Kids initiative.' The Chair was careful to emphasise the point that the Thriving Kids initiative be implemented in phases and that the Thriving Kids Advisory Group consider appropriate safeguards to prevent loss of supports for children. The Committee’s 16 recommendations include: Inclusive co-design with families, carers, service providers, and advocacy groups to ensure the Thriving Kids initiative reflects lived experience. Phased implementation supported by an Advisory Council to guide progress and maintain transparency. Stronger protections for families and carers, including clear pathways for support and safeguards for children engaged in the Thriving Kids initiative. Equity of access, particularly for First Nations communities, culturally and linguistically diverse families, and those in regional and remote areas. A review of the Thriving Kids initiative after 24 months to ensure it remains effective and responsive to community needs. The Committee greatly appreciates the contributions of families, carers, and service providers throughout the inquiry and reaffirms its commitment to processes that protect and empower those most affected. The Committee’s findings in the report will assist the Australian Government and the Thriving Kids Advisory Group to design the Thriving Kids program. Media inquiries Dr Mike Freelander MP – Committee Chair Mike.Freelander.MP@aph.gov.au (02) 4620 0293 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4145 Health.Reps@aph.gov.au

House Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Disability commences new inquiry into the proposed Thriving Kids initiative program.

Media release issue date: Thursday, 4 September 2025

The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Disability has commenced a new inquiry into the proposed Thriving Kids initiative program. Chair of the Committee, Dr Mike Freelander MP, said ‘Foundational supports play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectories of children with developmental delay and autism, offering the scaffolding necessary for optimal growth, learning, and wellbeing. ‘The launch of this inquiry marks a significant initial step toward ensuring that the voices of families, professionals, educators and the wider community are central to designing a program that meets the real and evolving needs of Australian children. It provides an opportunity for a broad spectrum of stakeholders to share their insights and recommendations, ensuring that policies are practical, equitable, and responsive’, Dr Freelander said. The final design will be settled between the Australian Government and state and territory governments and the Thriving Kids Advisory Group that will be co-chaired by the Health Minister the Hon Mark Butler MP and Professor Frank Oberklaid AM. The Committee welcomes the views of parents and families; Disability Representative Organisations; Disabled People's Organisations; Disability Representative and Carer Organisations; health care professionals (GPs and other medical specialists, nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals); early childhood, preschool and primary school educators; and service providers. The Committee invites interested individuals and organisations to make submissions by Friday, 3 October 2025. A brief survey is also now available to gather community feedback on the experiences of families and carers in accessing support services for children with additional needs. The survey will be open until Friday, 10 October 2025. Further information about the Committee’s inquiry, including the terms of reference and how to contribute, are available on the Committee’s website. Media enquiries Dr Mike Freelander MP – Committee Chair Mike.Freelander.MP@aph.gov.au (02) 4620 0293 For background information Committee Secretariat 02 6277 4145 Health.Reps@aph.gov.au For more information about this Committee, you can visit its website. On the site, you can make a submission to an inquiry, read other submissions, and get details for upcoming public hearings. You can also track the Committee and receive email updates by clicking on the blue ‘Track Committee’ button in the bottom right hand corner of the page.