Families raising children with autism and developmental delays say they are terrified the Federal Government’s plan to move some children off the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and into the new Thriving Kids program will strip away the vital support their kids depend on.

A survey of more than 100 Nundies customers across Australia with children receiving NDIS funding found:

• 92% of families said they are “very concerned” about the transition.
  
  
• 9 in 10 parents fear losing access to essential therapies and continence products.
  
  
• Choice and control was ranked the most valued feature of NDIS funding, with many worried the new program could become “one-size-fits-all.”
  
  
• Most respondents believe their ability to afford therapies, continence products, and support services will be significantly affected if their child moves off the NDIS.
  
  
• Parents consistently reported that a loss of funding or flexibility would increase stress, harm their wellbeing, and put additional strain on family relationships.

Thriving Kids Program: Too Many Unknowns

The Federal Government has announced that from mid-2026, children with Level 1 or Level 2 autism will no longer be eligible for the NDIS. Instead, they will receive support through the new Thriving Kids program, which is still being designed.

Families say this uncertainty is leaving them anxious about whether the support they rely on will remain available and flexible enough to meet their children’s needs.

The survey results show that parents of children with autism want their voices heard.

While the government has promised that Thriving Kids will provide community-based support, families are worried about how it will work in practice — and what it could mean for their children’s futures if essential supports are disrupted.

Parents Share Their Stories

Families who took part in the survey shared raw, personal accounts of what the changes could mean:

• “Without NDIS funding at the level it is today we would need to potentially sell our house and downsize to meet our children’s needs.”
  
  
• “It would be an absolute nightmare. It has taken 5 years of fighting the system to get to where we are now, and finding out it’s all changing is traumatising.”
  
  
• “Continence doesn’t care what ‘level’ autism someone has. The products available in supermarkets don’t fit — families like mine will be left stranded.”
  
  
• “Early intervention and dignity now prevent bigger costs later. Cutting corners today just costs more tomorrow.”

Why This Matters to Us

The results of our survey highlight just how deeply worried parents are about the proposed changes. The responses found that choice and stability are what matter most, and highlights that any disruption to this will have lasting consequences.

David Hernandez, CMO of Nundies, said:

“Families are telling us they’re terrified of losing the stability they’ve fought so hard to secure. 

The NDIS finally gave parents the power to choose what truly works for their child — from life-changing therapies to continence products that let them feel comfortable and confident at school. Any new program must guarantee that this choice and continuity are protected, not taken away.”

👉 See the full media release PDF here