Is My Child Still NDIS Eligible? A Guide to the 2026 Thriving Kids Changes in SA
Thriving Kids NDIS Changes SA represents a shift toward a community-based support system for children. Commencing October 1, 2026, the Thriving Kids program provides Foundational Supports for children aged eight and under with mild to moderate autism or developmental delay, moving them from individualized NDIS plans to local school-based and health hubs.
What is the Thriving Kids Program?
The Thriving Kids Program is a landmark $4 billion initiative jointly funded by the Commonwealth and state and territory governments. Launched in South Australia on October 1, 2026, it serves as a “gateway” for children aged eight under who have low moderate needs. Instead of individualised NDIS funding, these families access evidence-based support through SA Health Thriving Kids hubs, GPs, and early childhood intervention services.
NDIS vs. Thriving Kids: 2026 Eligibility Comparison
Understanding the distinction between NDIS Section 24 vs Section 25 eligibility is vital for Adelaide families navigating these reforms.
Feature | NDIS (Section 24) | Thriving Kids (Foundational Supports) |
Target Group | Permanent and significant disability | Mild to moderate autism / Developmental delay |
Access Requirement | Strict NDIS access criteria | No formal diagnosis required |
Funding Model | Individualised NDIS Plan | Block Funding to community hubs |
Delivery Site | Private providers / Allied health | Thriving Kids Adelaide school-based hubs |
Age Bracket | All ages | Children aged eight and under |
Who is Eligible for NDIS Under the New Rules?
While the NDIS Early Childhood Approach changes 2026 introduce a new pathway, the NDIS remains available for those with the greatest needs.
NDIS Eligibility Criteria
To maintain a specialized plan, a child must demonstrate a substantially reduced functional capacity.
- High Support Needs: Children with complex physical or intellectual disabilities.
- Section 24 Status: Those recognized with a permanent disability requiring long-term, intensive care.
- Significant Disability: Conditions that require specialized equipment or home modifications.
Thriving Kids Eligibility (Foundational Supports)
The Thriving Kids program focuses on neuro-affirming care for those who do not meet the “permanent and significant” threshold.
- Mild to Moderate Autism: Specifically those requiring Level 1 support.
- Developmental Delay: Children needing speech therapy or occupational therapy to “thrive, live, learn, and play.”
- No Diagnosis Needed: Access is based on functional needs identified by a professional, such as a nurse or GP.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Thriving Kids SA
- The NDIS transition to the Foundational Supports checklist simplifies the journey for South Australian families.
- Identify Functional Needs: Observe if your child has delays in social communication or motor skills.
- Consult a Professional: Visit your GP or a community health centre in Greater Adelaide.
- Engage with Kudos Services: As the Kudos Services SA NDIS partner, they help determine if you stay on the scheme or transition.
- Visit a Local Hub: Access Adelaide autism early intervention directly through SA Health Thriving Kids hubs located in schools and childcare centres.
- Conduct an Assessment: Complete an NDIS functional capacity assessment child report to ensure the level of support matches your child’s environment.
The 2026 Rollout Timeline for South Australia
The state and territory governments have committed to a phased implementation to ensure no child is left without care.
- October 1, 2026: The Thriving Kids NDIS Changes SA officially commence. New entrants with low-to-moderate needs are referred to Foundational Supports.
- January 2027: Increased integration of allied health services within Adelaide primary schools.
- January 2028: Full implementation reached. Existing NDIS participants under Section 25 eligibility complete their transition.
Expert Insights: Why the Shift to Foundational Supports?
Nurse Aid Australia recognizes that the National Disability Insurance Scheme was originally intended for those with the most significant disabilities. By introducing Foundational Supports for children SA, the government aims to provide timely, evidence-based help in natural environments like home and school. This neuro-affirming autism support Adelaide 2026 model reduces the “waiting list” stress and removes the financial burden of seeking a formal diagnosis just to access basic therapy.
Learn More :- Guide on Autism
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. Thriving Kids is a separate $4 billion program funded jointly by the Commonwealth and state and territory governments. It sits outside the NDIS as a “Foundational Support” gateway. It is designed for children who need early help but do not require a permanent, lifelong NDIS plan.
Yes. While the funding model is different, Autism SA remains a key provider of neuro-affirming care in the state. Under the new model, families can access autism-specific support directly through SA Health Thriving Kids hubs and community partners without needing an individual NDIS budget.
Current NDIS plans remain active and funded. From October 1, 2026, children with low moderate needs will gradually transition to Thriving Kids during their regular plan review. The government has committed that no child will lose support until the new community services are available in their local SA area.
No. It is only for children aged 8 and under with mild to moderate autism or developmental delay. Children with a permanent and significant disability who require intensive, long-term care will always stay on the NDIS under a specialized individual plan.
- Section 24: For “Permanent Disability” where the child has a lifelong, significant impairment. These children stay on the NDIS.
- Section 25: For “Early Intervention.” This covers children who need therapy now to reduce future support needs. Most children in this category will move to Thriving Kids from 2026.
At age 9, children transition out of the early childhood system. They will either move into school-based supports and mainstream health services or, if their functional needs remain high, they can apply for a transition back into a full NDIS plan.
No. This is a major change for Adelaide families. Thriving Kids is needs-based. If a GP, nurse, or teacher identifies a delay, the child can access evidence-based support immediately. You no longer need to wait for a “Level 1 Autism” diagnosis to get help.
An FCA is a report from an allied health professional (like an OT) that proves how a child functions in daily life. In 2026, the NDIS eligibility criteria prioritize “Functional Impact” over a medical label. A strong FCA is your best tool to show whether your child needs the NDIS or Thriving Kids.
Kudos Services is the official NDIS partner in SA. They manage the “gateway” for families, helping them determine if they should apply for the NDIS or access the Thriving Kids program through local community health networks.
The primary SA Health Thriving Kids hubs are located at Marion GP Plus (Oaklands Park) and Aldinga GP Plus. A second major northern hub is scheduled to open in Mawson Lakes/Elizabeth in the first half of 2026, with further outreach through local primary schools.
Yes. The 2026 model encourages “Block Funding” to existing providers. While you won’t “pay” the therapist via an NDIS portal, many local Adelaide practitioners will be registered to deliver services through the Thriving Kids network, ensuring continuity of care.
For low to moderate needs, behavior support is provided in neuro-affirming group settings at the Kids Hubs. If the behavior is “complex or high-risk,” the child will likely remain eligible for the NDIS to access specialized Positive Behaviour Support (PBS).
No. While national reforms begin in July, the October 1, 2026 rollout is the key date for South Australia. Your plan remains safe until its next scheduled review, and transitions only occur if the equivalent support is already active in your local SA community.
Secure Your Child's Future with Nurse Aid Australia
Navigating the July 2026 NDIS changes to child updates can feel overwhelming. At Nurse Aid Australia, we provide the Expertise and Authoritativeness you need to manage this transition with confidence. Whether you need a professional NDIS functional capacity assessment child report or help understanding Section 25 eligibility, our team is here to support your journey.
Contact Nurse Aid Australia today to discuss your child’s support plan.