Parents call for more detail on Thriving Kids program amid changes to NDIS | ABC NEWS

About this video

• Video Title: Parents call for more detail on Thriving Kids program amid changes to NDIS | ABC NEWS
• Channel: ABC News (Australia)
• Speakers: Claire Mai, Mark Butler, Claire Jibellini, Naz Campanella
• Duration: 00:02:35

Overview

This video discusses the Australian government's plan to introduce a new program called "Thriving Kids" to divert children with developmental delays or autism away from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Parents and advocates express concern about the lack of detail regarding this new program, fearing it may negatively impact the progress and individualized support that children currently receive through the NDIS.

Key takeaways

• NDIS changes sparking concern: The government's announcement to move children with developmental delays or autism from the NDIS to a new "Thriving Kids" program has raised alarms within the disability community.
• Lack of program detail: "Thriving Kids" is set to launch in less than a year, but its design and specifics are still undefined, leading to anxiety among parents and advocates.
• Parental fears of regression: Parents like Claire Mai worry that these changes could jeopardize the progress their children, such as her son Clark who has autism and uses a communication device, have made with NDIS-funded therapies.
• Advocacy for individualized support: Advocates like Claire Jibellini emphasize the diverse and fluctuating needs of autistic children, stressing the importance of individualized support provided by the NDIS, even if it appears to frontload costs, as it leads to better long-term outcomes.
• Government response: Minister Mark Butler states an advisory group will consult with the community on the program's design and assures parents of his commitment to supporting children and their families.