Foundational Supports for Kids: What Services Will Be Available Through Schools and Clinics?

Foundational Supports for Kids: What Services Will Be Available Through Schools and Clinics?

Navigating the world of disability supports for children can feel like a complex maze. Many families are unsure about what supports are available, especially those that sit outside the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). It’s important to understand what foundational supports are being developed and how they will work in conjunction with the NDIS. This post will break down the landscape of these foundational supports, focusing on those provided through schools and clinics, and what this means for your child.

See our complete ndis-early-intervention-funding-changes-for-autism-and-developmental-delay-support guide

What are Foundational Supports?

Foundational supports are a crucial layer of assistance designed to complement, rather than replace, the NDIS. These supports are specifically for people with disability, their families and carers who may not require the intensive, individualised support of an NDIS plan, or who are waiting for their NDIS application to be approved. Think of them as an extra safety net, ensuring more people can access the help they need to thrive.

Currently, Australian governments are collaborating on expanding and improving foundational supports across the country. These supports aim to address the Independent Review into the NDIS's recommendation for greater assistance outside of the scheme. The focus is on building a system that provides accessible and responsive services in the community.

"Thriving Kids": A Key Initiative

A significant initiative within the realm of foundational supports is "Thriving Kids," scheduled to commence on 1 July 2026. This program specifically targets children aged 8 and under who have developmental delays or disabilities with low to moderate support needs. Thriving Kids aims to identify developmental concerns earlier and establish a nationwide system of supports for these children and their families. The program is being co-designed by the Australian Government and state and territory governments, with input from experts like Professor Frank Oberklaid and significant community consultation.

Foundational Supports in Schools and Clinics: What to Expect

While the precise details of the services offered through schools and clinics are still under development, here's what we can anticipate based on current information:

• Early Intervention Programs: Schools may offer enhanced early intervention programs designed to identify and address developmental concerns in young children. This could include additional screening, assessments, and targeted support within the classroom.

• Therapy Services: Clinics, potentially including community health centres and GP practices, may offer access to therapists such as speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and psychologists. These services could be available at a reduced cost or subsidised, making them more accessible for families.

• Parenting Support and Education: Both schools and clinics may provide parenting programs and workshops focused on understanding developmental delays and disabilities, implementing effective strategies at home, and accessing other available resources.

• Support for Inclusive Practices: Schools may receive additional funding and training to enhance their capacity to include children with disability in mainstream classrooms. This could involve providing professional development for teachers, access to assistive technology, and the development of individual learning plans.

• Referral Pathways: Schools and clinics will likely play a key role in referring children to the NDIS if they require a higher level of support. Clearer referral pathways and streamlined assessment processes will be crucial in ensuring families receive the right support at the right time.

Key NDIS Considerations

While foundational supports are vital, it’s important to understand how they interact with the NDIS:

• NDIS Eligibility: Foundational supports are not a replacement for the NDIS. Children with permanent and significant disabilities who require intensive, individualised support will continue to be supported through the NDIS. The NDIS provides funding for individualised plans that address specific needs and goals.

• Complementary Support: Foundational supports are designed to complement the NDIS. A child may receive foundational supports while waiting for their NDIS application to be processed or to address needs that fall outside the scope of their NDIS plan.

• Advocacy and Planning: Even with the introduction of foundational supports, advocating for your child's needs and actively participating in the NDIS planning process remains crucial. Understand your child's rights and the supports they are entitled to.

Practical Steps for Families

1. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest developments in foundational supports by visiting the Department of Social Services website and engaging with disability advocacy organisations.

2. Connect with Your School and Local Clinics: Talk to your child's school and local clinics about the supports they offer and how to access them.

3. Advocate for Your Child: Don't hesitate to advocate for your child's needs and ensure they receive the support they require, whether through foundational supports or the NDIS.

4. Consider an NDIS Application: If your child has a permanent and significant disability that requires ongoing, individualised support, consider applying for the NDIS.

5. Seek Professional Advice: Consult with an NDIS specialist or advocate to understand your child's eligibility for the NDIS and navigate the application process.

In Conclusion

The introduction of foundational supports represents a positive step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for children with disability and developmental delays. By understanding the role of these supports and how they interact with the NDIS, families can better navigate the system and ensure their children receive the help they need to thrive. While the rollout of these supports, particularly "Thriving Kids," is still on the horizon, proactive engagement with your child’s school, local clinics, and advocacy organisations will ensure you are well-prepared to access these vital services. Remember, you are your child’s best advocate, and your voice matters.