Victoria expands child health nurse visits as Thriving Kids program launches to replace NDIS for mild-to-moderate cases
Victoria will provide two additional visits with maternal and child health nurses to all children, and is reviewing its existing 10 visits, as part of the Thriving Kids program launching in October to transition children with mild-to-moderate developmental delays off the NDIS. The $874.3 million program, funded jointly by Victoria ($514 million) and the Commonwealth ($360 million), will serve children aged eight and under with mild-to-moderate needs while those with high support needs remain on the NDIS. The initiative aims to make services more accessible and efficient, though the minister acknowledged that support under Thriving Kids will differ from NDIS provision.
Victoria is expanding early childhood health services and launching the Thriving Kids program in October to manage the transition of children with mild-to-moderate developmental delays and autism off the National Disability Insurance Scheme. All Victorian children will receive two additional assessments with maternal and child health nurses—one before kindergarten entry and one at school start—to identify support needs. The state is also reviewing whether its existing 10 visits for children from birth to age three-and-a-half should be concentrated earlier. The program, funded through a $874.3 million agreement between Victoria and the Commonwealth, will employ more allied health professionals and support workers co-located with maternal child health services, kindergartens, and early parenting centres. Minister Lizzie Blandthorn acknowledged that services will differ from the NDIS but emphasized families want easier, more efficient support tailored to individual needs. The Opposition has separately announced a $156 million pledge for neurodiverse identification at school entry, including $500 subsidies for specialist appointments.
What's missing
The specific criteria for determining 'mild to moderate' developmental delays versus 'high support needs' are not detailed. The timeline and process for transitioning existing NDIS participants to Thriving Kids is mentioned as phased until 2028 but lacks specifics on how families will be notified and supported during transition. The outcomes of the Senate inquiry into NDIS cuts are not yet available.
What different sources said
- ABC AustraliaCenter
More child health nurse visits for Victorian kids amid NDIS shake-up
Related
Study Finds Many Women Wanted More Information About Medication Abortion Complications
A peer-reviewed study published in PLOS ONE found that over half of surveyed women who had medication abortions wished they had received more information about potential complications like bleeding and pain. The research, conducted by the Charlotte Lozier Institute (a pro-life organization), surveyed 362 women and measured their perceptions of the informed consent process. The findings raise questions about whether informed consent procedures adequately prepare patients for medication abortion experiences.
Indigenous-Led Program Helps Communities Quit Commercial Tobacco Use Across Canada
The Canadian Cancer Society has launched Connect to Change, an eight-week Indigenous-led program designed to help Indigenous communities reduce or quit commercial tobacco use through culturally grounded activities and support. Indigenous peoples in Canada use commercial tobacco at significantly higher rates than non-Indigenous populations, with rates 1.7 to 2.4 times higher depending on the group. The program addresses a leading cause of preventable disease and death in Canada by combining physical activities, cultural practices, nicotine replacement therapy, and ongoing support services.
Queensland engineering student develops smart clock to help elderly maintain independence after grandfather's fall
Kai Gould, a 20-year-old electrical engineering student, invented MedClock, a smart alarm clock that alerts family members when elderly relatives complete daily tasks, after his grandfather spent nearly two days undiscovered following a fall on his farm. The device allows older people to maintain independence while keeping families informed of their wellbeing, addressing a gap in aged care support as Australia faces growing waitlists. The invention has gained significant traction, with over 8,000 social media engagements, placement in seven pharmacies, and interest from hospitals and retirement villages.