Why This Matters
- Queensland's non-participation means children in the state with mild to moderate autism or developmental delays may not receive the new supports despite the program's national rollout.
- The 2028 NDIS eligibility change will shift responsibility for these children to state governments, creating a potential coverage gap in states that have not signed up.
- The ATO finding that one-quarter of large firms pay zero tax is likely to fuel debate over corporate taxation.
Background
The NDIS is Australia's national scheme providing disability support, jointly funded by the federal and state governments. The Thriving Kids program is part of a reform that moves responsibility for young children with mild to moderate autism or developmental delays from the NDIS to state-run support. From 2028, children in this group will no longer be eligible for federal NDIS aid, making state participation critical.
Key Perspectives
Federal government: The program is designed to provide earlier, state-based support for young children, with states taking over from the NDIS for this group by 2028.
Queensland government: The state missed the sign-up deadline, though no reason was given in available reporting. Its absence could leave a gap for families in that state.
Families and advocates: For parents of young children with autism or developmental delays in Queensland, there is uncertainty about what supports will be available once the NDIS eligibility change takes effect, and whether the state will still sign on.
What to Watch
- Whether Queensland signs up to the program in the coming days or weeks, after the rollout has begun.
- How the federal government responds to a state's non-participation, including whether alternative arrangements are made for affected children.
- The 2028 NDIS eligibility change: whether children in non-participating states receive equivalent support through other means.