Australia is undergoing a significant transformation in how it supports children and adolescents with disabilities. While the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has been a game-changer for many, it does not reach everyone. Recognising this, the Australian Government is developing a new layer of assistance known as Foundational Supports—a system designed to ensure that all children and young people with disabilities, including those not eligible for the NDIS, receive the help they need to thrive.
This blog post explores what Foundational Supports are, why they matter, how they differ from NDIS supports, and what they mean for families, educators, and service providers across Australia.
Foundational Supports are community-based services and programs designed to support people with disabilities, including children and adolescents, outside of the NDIS. These supports aim to fill the gaps in the current system by offering assistance to those who may not qualify for the NDIS but still require help to participate fully in everyday life.
There are two main types of Foundational Supports:
While the NDIS has transformed lives, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Many children and adolescents with disabilities do not meet the eligibility criteria for the NDIS, yet still face significant challenges in education, social participation, and daily living.
By addressing these gaps, Foundational Supports aim to create a more inclusive and equitable system for all children and young people with disabilities.
| Feature | NDIS | Foundational Supports |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Requires formal diagnosis and functional impairment | No formal diagnosis required |
| Funding | Individualised funding plans | Generally free or low-cost community services |
| Scope | Intensive, long-term supports | Early, preventative, and community-based supports |
| Access | Application and assessment process | Open access or referral-based |
| Focus | Participants with significant and permanent disability | Broader population with emerging or less severe needs |
Foundational Supports are not a replacement for the NDIS but a complementary layer that ensures no child or adolescent falls through the cracks.
For children under 9, early intervention is critical. Foundational Supports in this area may include:
These services help children build foundational skills in communication, motor development, and social interaction—often preventing the need for more intensive support later on.
Schools are a central part of a child’s life. Foundational Supports can enhance educational inclusion through:
These supports aim to create a school environment where all students can learn and participate meaningfully.
Adolescents with disabilities are at higher risk of mental health challenges. Foundational Supports in this area may include:
These services are especially important for young people with autism, ADHD, or psychosocial disabilities who may not qualify for NDIS but still need structured support.
Families are the backbone of support for children with disabilities. Foundational Supports for families include:
These supports reduce stress, build confidence, and empower families to advocate for their children.
A key principle of Foundational Supports is that they are community-led and culturally responsive. This means:
This approach ensures that supports are not only accessible but also meaningful and respectful of diverse experiences.
The Australian Government, in partnership with state and territory governments, is currently in the design and consultation phase of implementing Foundational Supports. Key milestones include:
The implementation will be gradual, with pilot programs and regional trials informing broader rollout strategies.
If you are a parent, carer, teacher, or allied health professional, Foundational Supports offer new opportunities to:
It’s important to stay informed and involved in the rollout process. You can do this by:
At Supporting Learning for Children with Needs (SLCN), we are committed to helping families and educators navigate the evolving landscape of disability support in Australia. Our services include:
We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive—regardless of their diagnosis or eligibility status.
Foundational Supports represent a bold and inclusive step forward in Australia’s commitment to children and adolescents with disabilities. By bridging the gap between mainstream services and the NDIS, these supports ensure that no child is left behind.
As we move toward implementation in 2025, collaboration between governments, communities, families, and service providers will be key. Together, we can build a system that supports every child’s right to a fulfilling and inclusive life.
