First Nations leadership key to Thriving Kids success
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First Peoples Disability Network warns the $2b Thriving Kids program must be co-designed with First Nations families to deliver real support for children.
The federal government’s $2 billion Thriving Kids program has been welcomed as a major step to support children with developmental needs. But First Peoples Disability Network (FPDN) has warned it could fail First Nations families unless it is co-designed with communities.
FPDN Director of Policy and Strategy Tennille Lamb said the risks are real. “We are so worried that our kids will fall through the cracks, that they won’t get the supports that they need. And that will have long-term impacts for their wellbeing throughout life,” she told National Indigenous Times.
For many families, the first hurdle is diagnosis. An autism assessment can cost more than $3,000, putting it out of reach for most households. In regional and remote areas, services are even harder to access. Families are also fearful that a disability diagnosis could bring them to the attention of child protection, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children already over-represented in foster care.
FPDN has outlined five commitments needed for Thriving Kids to succeed:
- No child loses out: NDIS supports must continue until new services are in place locally and independently verified for quality and cultural safety.
- First Nations leadership: Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations must be resourced to design, deliver and evaluate services.
- Choice and control protected: Foundational supports should expand options, not replace rights. Families must have access to culturally safe providers.
- A strong workforce plan: Investment in local and regional services to avoid disruption for families.
- Transparency and accountability: Public reporting on funding, coverage, and outcomes linked to Closing the Gap.
The Network said families want reform that strengthens the NDIS by building services around it, not replacing it.
“Thriving Kids can succeed if it’s co-designed with First Nations families, led by our community-controlled sector, and if government keeps its promise that no child will be worse off,” Ms Lamb said.