Thriving Kids in Victoria: what we know so far

Thriving Kids is a national reform, but each state and territory is working out exactly how it will deliver services locally. Here's where things stand for Victorian families.

A national plan, delivered locally

The Australian Government and the states and territories have agreed to jointly fund Thriving Kids, with at least part of the Commonwealth's contribution flowing to states to deliver services. The details of what each state delivers are being worked through in bilateral agreements, so some specifics for Victoria are still emerging.

The timeline for Victoria

Nationally, services are expected to begin from 1 October 2026 and scale up progressively, with full rollout targeted for 1 January 2028. Victorian families should expect a gradual introduction rather than an overnight switch.

How families are likely to connect

The model points to several everyday entry points for finding support — for example through GPs, Maternal and Child Health nurses, allied-health professionals, and early learning or school settings. Support is intended to be delivered where children already are: at home, in kinder and childcare, at school and in the community.

What this means in Melbourne's South-East

Our region has a large, growing population of young families, and demand for early childhood support is high. A system built around everyday settings and family coaching fits how support works best in busy family life. As Victoria's specifics are confirmed, we'll update this page for local families across Casey, Cardinia and the surrounding South-East.