You may have seen recent media coverage about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) following a press conference by The Hon Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Ageing and Minister for Disability and the NDIS.
Understandably, this has created a lot of discussion - and, for some families, concern.
What does this mean?
Much of what was announced is not new. The government has repackaged and renamed what were previously referred to as “foundational supports.” These are services designed to better support children with developmental delay or Levels 1 and 2 Autism outside of the NDIS.
This is something we at L4Life have been preparing for. It is, in fact, one of the reasons we are expanding our Inclusion Works® program, so that children and schools can access the right supports in mainstream settings.
Why is this in the news?
While the details are familiar to many in the sector, media coverage has amplified the announcement and, in some cases, created confusion. We know that stories like this can lead to misinformation and strong reactions, which may cause anxiety for families.
What families need to know right now
- There is no immediate change to NDIS supports for families currently accessing services.
- Children already on the NDIS will continue to receive support through their plans, subject to the usual reviews and processes.
- The government’s new “Thriving Kids” program is being designed but has not yet started. Details about what it will look like, and how it will work alongside the NDIS, are still to come.
L4Life’s commitment
At L4Life, our focus remains the same:
- Providing individualised, evidence-based supports for autistic and neurodivergent children. These supports can range from foundational capability building programs, to light touch consultancy, to high intensity early intervention of up to 30 hours per week in line with clinical guidelines. All tailored to the needs of each child.
- Working alongside families with empathy, clarity, and care.
- Advocating for systems that ensure children get the right supports, at the right time, in the right setting, while fostering understanding and recognition of the challenges they may face in a predominantly neurotypical world.
- Supporting families and autistic and other neurodivergent children regardless of NDIS eligibility or financial barriers.
We will continue to keep families updated as more details emerge. In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or concerns — our team is here for you.
Together, we will navigate these changes while staying true to what matters most: supporting children to live the life they choose.
The L4Life Team
