A new scheme is about to replace the NDIS for children with autism. Why has Queensland refused to sign up?
State’s premier and many parents have questions about the Thriving Kids program. But what happens when the NDIS funding stops? Get our breaking news email , free app or daily news podcast As parliament debated the future of the National Disability Insurance Scheme this week, Ali Kuylaars was worried. Her two children, both diagnosed with autism, could be among thousands across the country removed…
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is set to be replaced by a new program called Thriving Kids, which will replace support for children with mild to moderate autism or developmental delays up to the age of nine. Queensland has been the only state not to sign up for this new replacement scheme, with the program set to fully replace the NDIS for these children by 2028.
The Queensland Premier, David Crisafulli, has raised concerns about the new program and has yet to sign up for it, leaving questions about the future of children with autism in the state. While some parents, such as Ali Kuylaars, who has two children diagnosed with autism, support the state’s approach and believe that some alternative system must be in place, others are concerned about the lack of clarity regarding the new program and how it will be implemented.
Deejay Egan, the group chief executive officer for an NDIS provider in Queensland, expresses uncertainty about how the state will service its participants if a deal is not reached, and highlights the potential negative impact on children’s health, educational engagement, and financial pressure on parents. The issue remains unresolved, with the Queensland government demanding more information and clarification before committing to the new program.
Written by urgent.news from The Guardian Australia's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
