Briefs Prepared By Social Policy Division For 2025-26 Supplementary Budget Estimates

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This departmental estimates brief addresses NDIS sustainability reforms announced by Minister Butler in August 2025. The Government proposes capping NDIS growth at 5-6 per cent annually (reflecting GDP growth) rather than the unsustainable 8 per cent interim target agreed in 2023. Key reforms include diverting children with mild to moderate developmental delay and autism from the NDIS to a new Thriving Kids program, with $2 billion Commonwealth funding allocated. Thriving Kids rollout begins 1 July 2026, with access changes taking effect mid-2027. The brief outlines proposed service delivery models including Medicare items for bulk-billed developmental checks and allied health services. The 2025-26 Budget provides $423.8 million over five years for disability supports, including $364.5 million to redesign the Information, Linkages and Capacity Building Program.