In short: NDIS access depends on age, residence and the disability or early intervention requirements, not a diagnosis alone. Children can also receive support outside the NDIS. Thriving Kids is rolling out gradually, but families should not assume that it replaces their child's current plan or that every local service is already available.
Who can apply for the NDIS?
You must be under 65 when your completed application is received and meet the residence requirements. The NDIA also assesses the disability or early intervention requirements using evidence about your needs and everyday functioning.
A diagnosis can be relevant evidence, but is not a guarantee of access or a particular budget. See the NDIS eligibility guidance and speak with an NDIS partner about your circumstances.
Can children get help before a diagnosis?
The early childhood approach is for under-9s with developmental delays or disability. Under-6 rules apply to early supports for developmental concerns and to developmental-delay plan access. Early connections and an individually funded NDIS plan are not the same thing.
If you are concerned about development, start with your GP, maternal and child health nurse or another treating professional. An early childhood partner can help identify support options and whether an access application is appropriate. Do not wait for a label before asking for advice.
What is Thriving Kids?
Thriving Kids is a new approach to early support for children aged 8 and under with extra developmental needs and their families. It includes information, family support and progressively introduced local services outside individual NDIS plans.
The rollout is staged. National information and some Victorian supports began in October 2026; further Victorian allied health services are planned from 2027. Use the Victorian information for families to check what is available locally. This article does not establish Reliance Care and Support as a commissioned Thriving Kids provider.
Does Thriving Kids mean my child loses their NDIS plan?
Do not assume this. Current Victorian guidance says NDIS access arrangements do not change until 1 January 2028, and families can continue applying. A current plan continues unless a reassessment changes it.
A child's ongoing eligibility and funding depend on the applicable rules and individual decisions. Neither a clinic article nor a diagnosis can guarantee the outcome. Keep any NDIA notices and ask your NDIS contact to explain a proposed change.
Separate funding changes are also underway. Our funding-changes guide explains why it is important to check the amount and conditions in your own plan.
How can you prepare for an access conversation?
Ask the NDIS partner what evidence is needed before paying for additional reports. Useful questions for your treating team include:
- Which everyday activities are difficult, and what support is needed?
- What existing reports can be used?
- Is another assessment needed, and why?
- Which supports can help while an application is considered?
- What fees apply to assessments or reports?
For the application steps, see the NDIA's current guide to applying. The NDIA makes access and funding decisions; providers supply relevant clinical information rather than approving plans.
How can Reliance Care and Support help?
Our allied health services can discuss your needs and the assessments or support the current team offers. Contact intake to check suitability, fees and availability, or see our NDIS information. Asking the clinic about a service is not an NDIS access decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an autism diagnosis guarantee NDIS funding?
No. The NDIA assesses the access requirements and supporting evidence. A diagnosis alone does not determine a person's functional needs or budget.
Is the NDIS only for adults?
No. Children may qualify through the applicable disability or early intervention requirements. Early childhood partners can also help families connect with support before an individual plan is approved.
Can my child get help without an NDIS plan?
Yes, there may be health, education, community and early childhood support options. Availability and eligibility differ; ask your treating professional or early childhood partner rather than assuming a particular service is free.
Is Thriving Kids already available everywhere?
No. Services are being introduced in stages. Check current Victorian information for the options in your area.
Can Reliance Care and Support approve my application?
No. The NDIA decides access and plan funding. Our clinicians can discuss relevant assessments and evidence within their scope.
What if I disagree with a decision?
Read the decision letter and seek advice promptly about any review rights and time limits. An independent advocate or your NDIS contact can help you understand the process.
Trusted sources for further reading
- NDIS — How to check your eligibility
- NDIS — Guide to the early childhood approach
- Australian Government — Thriving Kids
- Victorian Government — Thriving Kids information for families
- NDIS — How to apply
This is general information checked on 28 October 2026. Policy and local services can change. For individual eligibility or funding advice, contact the NDIA; for developmental concerns, speak with your child's treating professional.
