National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026

Submission 2122

Submission regarding the proposed NDIS changes and “Thriving Kids” transition

To whom it may concern,

I am writing as a parent and someone who has experience supporting children and families to express my concerns regarding the proposed NDIS amendments and the transition toward the “Thriving Kids” model.

As a parent of a child with additional needs, I am deeply concerned that these changes risk creating a more generalised, one-size-fits-all system that does not adequately recognise the individual developmental journeys of children. Every child develops differently, and supports need to remain flexible, individualised, and responsive to their unique needs rather than being restricted by broad eligibility assumptions or standardised pathways.

My child has complex support needs that impact daily life, emotional regulation, communication, transitions, and participation in everyday environments. Access to early intervention and ongoing supports has been essential not only for my child’s development, but also for our family’s ability to cope, maintain routines, and participate in the community. The thought of reduced access, delayed intervention, or uncertainty around eligibility is incredibly distressing for families already navigating significant challenges.

I am also concerned about the lack of clarity surrounding what “Thriving Kids” will actually provide, who will qualify, how services will be delivered, and whether supports will be consistent across different areas. Families need certainty and transparency, particularly when children rely on continuity of care and established therapeutic relationships.

In my experience, children with developmental disabilities, autism, sensory challenges, emotional regulation difficulties, and communication delays often do not fit neatly into rigid systems. Removing or reducing supports early can have long- term consequences not only for the child, but also for parents, carers, schools, and the broader community. Early intervention should not become harder to access when evidence consistently shows that timely supports lead to better outcomes.

I am additionally concerned that the voices of parents, carers, therapists, educators, those working within disability professions, and professionals do not appear to have been genuinely centred throughout this process. Families directly impacted by these decisions should be meaningfully consulted before major structural changes are implemented.

The NDIS Early Childhood Approach was designed to support children in ways that are tailored, preventative, and developmentally appropriate. I strongly urge the Government to ensure that any reforms continue to uphold these principles rather than replacing them with systems that may unintentionally create more barriers for vulnerable children and families.

I ask that the Government reconsider the proposed direction of these amendments and undertake further consultation with families and professionals before proceeding.

National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026

Submission 2122

Thank you for considering my submission.