Thriving Kids is a new national approach to early developmental support. In NSW, new general supports are expected to begin from October 2026, with targeted supports beginning from January 2027 and further services rolling out during 2027. Current NSW guidance focuses on children aged 8 and under with developmental delay and/or autism and low to moderate support needs, together with families, carers and kin.
General supports
- Supported playgroups
- Peer support
- Parenting programs
- Information and referral support
Targeted supports
- Goal focused allied health
- Individual or small group support
- Coordination
- Some low cost assistive technology where applicable
Referral pathways by role
Nurses and GPs
- 1Note the developmental concern and the family's own priorities
- 2Search by category, suburb and availability
- 3Refer, and receive a response summary
Early childhood and education
- 1Describe what you observe in the room, not a diagnosis
- 2Filter for providers who visit DayCare, Kindergarten or School
- 3Refer with family consent and share strategies
Community professionals
- 1Start with a supported playgroup or guidance appointment
- 2Check travel radius and outreach days for regional families
- 3Refer, then track the response
Families and carers
- 1Search free, with no account needed
- 2Compare wait times and service locations
- 3Refer your own child directly
Frequently asked questions
You do not need to wait for the rollout to act
Providers across NSW already deliver speech pathology, occupational therapy, psychology, assessment and family support. You can search and refer today.