Thriving Kids: Australia's New Disability Scheme

0:00Australia's rolling-out thriving kids, a fresh alternative to the National Disability Insurance Scheme for kids under 9, with mild to moderate, developmental delays, or autism. The first phase kicks off in October with full rollout by January 2028, and it's designed to ease the load on the NDIS, which is set to cost over $50 billion this year. Instead of traditional plans, therapies, and supports will happen right in schools, early childhood centers, and community hubs. These hubs, like the one run by our place in Frankston North outside Melbourne, act as one-stop shops. There are nine across the state, based at local primary schools. Families get everything from speech therapy and playgroups to mental health help and child health checks, all in a casual spot that draws in. Hard to reach groups like indigenous and migrant families. Parents are loving it. A survey show nearly 100% attendance at health appointments, referrals of 79% and most feeling way more confident.

1:00Helping their kids prep for school. Take Christy Trouble, mom to three autistic boys. She felt isolated until the hub spotted speech delays in her youngest and guided her through supports. Now she runs a weekly parent group to build that village vibe. Meanwhile, officials are hashing out details like workforce needs amid shortages and waitlists. Allied health pros and teachers back the idea, but want funding for burnout in spaces. NDIS minister Mark Butler says, states are signing agreements soon, with staff adapting through new pay and roles. Places like our place prove integrating services, boosts efficiency and outcomes for kids and families, even if scaling nationwide takes time and grit. This model's got real potential to glue the system together for the long haul. That's your Sydney News Today update, AI powered and always on.