Children, Young People and Families Reference Group meeting bulletin, 24 November 2025
The Children, Young People and Families Reference Group (Reference Group) met online on 24 November 2025. At the meeting, they discussed:
what they have heard in their communities
an update on the Thriving Kids initiative
an update on IAC Advice.
Principal Member Leah van Poppel and Reference Group Co-chair Lorna Hallahan led the meeting.
What Members have heard in their communities
Members shared how some families of little children are confused about the Thriving Kids initiative. They asked for better coordination between the Agency and their operational activities when reviewing children's eligibility at age 6. The Agency acknowledged these concerns and said Thriving Kids will make supports more accessible, lower entry barriers, while ensuring developmental supports are available. The Agency said Scheme will still be available for children with permanent and significant disability and with high level needs.
Members reported concerns about changes to available therapies. There seems to be some confusion among planners about what they can approve. This is causing misinformation in the community. Member reflected the negative media around autistic people is leading to some autistic people feel devalued and unwanted.
Members reported some families are concerned about referrals to Child Protective Services. Planners may misinterpret disability-related needs as they relate to a parent’s capacity to fulfil their parental responsibilities. Members asked the Agency what training staff have for these conversations. The Agency noted it will investigate these concerns and the current training process.
Members discussed the challenges participants face when trialling and accessing assistive technology, which is more difficult for participants in rural and remote areas.
Members asked the Agency to support participants applying to join the Scheme. Many people feel it is too difficult. The Agency said it appreciated Members’ insights and would consider them.
Members noted that some in the community are concerned about the move towards support needs assessments. Members would like to hear more about how the Agency will conduct assessments and how it will consider those with high anxiety or complex needs. The Agency noted it designed the iCAN tool for adults on the Scheme. It has not yet finalised the support needs assessment for children under 16.
Thriving Kids update
Representatives from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing updated Members on the status of the Thriving Kids initiative and on Foundational Supports.
IAC Advice update
The IAC’s Independent Advisors updated Members on the progress of the ‘Home and Living’ and ‘Justice’ pieces of advice they are developing.
More information on the Reference Group
The Children, Young People and Families Reference Group will next meet on 2 February 2026. Find out more about IAC and Reference Group meetings and bulletins at the IAC website.
Information in Easy Read
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