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AAPi continues to undertake extensive advocacy work regarding the rollout of the national Thriving Kids initiative, with a strong focus on protecting the role of psychologists, ensuring access for children and families, and advocating for the inclusion of private practice psychologists in service delivery models.
While Thriving Kids was initially discussed as a more nationally consistent reform, the reality has become increasingly fragmented, with each state and territory rapidly developing its own approach, procurement processes, and service models. This has resulted in significant variability across jurisdictions and raised serious concerns about consistency, workforce planning, evidence-based implementation, and equitable access for families, particularly those living near state borders.
AAPi has been actively engaging with governments, departments, and stakeholders across multiple jurisdictions to advocate for:
- The central role of psychologists in early intervention supports
- Inclusion of private practice psychologists alongside NGOs and government services
- Sustainable workforce models that do not undermine quality or accessibility
- Evidence-informed implementation and evaluation frameworks
- Fair and workable commissioning approaches
We remain concerned that rushed commissioning processes may result in governments defaulting to large NGO providers, potentially creating market concentration, workforce instability, and reduced choice for families. We have consistently highlighted the risks of highly KPI-driven, low-cost contracting approaches that can lead to workforce burnout and poorer long-term outcomes for children and families.
We also want to acknowledge just how much anxiety and apprehension currently exists across the profession and the community regarding Thriving Kids.
Many psychologists are concerned about what these reforms may mean for:
- Their clients and continuity of care
- Workforce sustainability
- The future role of private practice
- Service accessibility and quality
- Funding arrangements and commissioning models
- The rapid pace and lack of consistency across jurisdictions
At the same time, many families and clients are understandably worried about whether they will be able to continue accessing trusted supports and whether services will remain available in their local communities.
AAPi is hearing directly from members across the country who are feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, and frustrated by the pace at which these reforms are unfolding and the lack of clarity that persists. We are continuing to advocate strongly to ensure psychologists’ expertise is recognised and that children and families do not lose access to high-quality psychological support during this transition.
NSW – EOI Process Now Open
The NSW Thriving Kids Expression of Interest process has now commenced.
The NSW procurement process will involve two stages:
- Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Request for Tender (RFT)
Organisations selected through the EOI process will be invited to progress to the RFT stage.
The EOI closes on 29 May 2026.
AAPi is continuing discussions with the NSW Government and has heard that the current preference is to work with not-for-profit organisations, although private providers may still be considered through the EOI process. We are strongly advocating for the inclusion of private providers and educating government about the critical role private practice psychologists already play in supporting children and families across NSW.
We encourage members and organisations who may be interested to carefully consider submitting an EOI before the closing date.
AAPi is also exploring “Plan B” approaches, including potential collaborations between private practices and not-for-profit organisations. As an organisation, AAPi itself is a not-for-profit and is actively investigating options that support both the profession and community access outcomes.
WA – Market Survey Extended
AAPi recently attended the WA Thriving Kids briefing, and it was very clear from the discussions and questions raised that workforce engagement is urgently needed.
The WA Government has extended the closing date for its market survey until 17 May 2026, and we strongly encourage WA members to participate. Feedback from psychologists will be critical in shaping how services are commissioned and delivered.
Of particular concern, presenters indicated there is currently very limited resourcing anticipated for individual therapy within the WA model. It also appears WA may adopt more traditional state government commissioning arrangements.
AAPi will continue advocating for:
- Adequate funding for psychological intervention
- Recognition of the importance of individual therapy
- Sustainable workforce models
- Inclusion of private practitioners within service delivery pathways
If you missed the WA briefing webinar, a recording will be uploaded to the government webpage.
Tasmania – Consultation Sessions Underway
The Tasmanian Government has commenced a series of consultation and engagement sessions across the state regarding the proposed Thriving Kids model.
AAPi will attend the virtual consultation session and will continue to engage with the Tasmanian Government, alongside all other state and territory governments, regarding the important role psychologists must play in the Thriving Kids implementation.
Tasmania’s consultation process includes both face-to-face and online engagement opportunities.
Find the dates and locations, and register here.
Summary
There are enormous implications for both psychologists and the children and families who will rely on these services. AAPi remains deeply engaged at both the national and jurisdictional levels to ensure psychology is not sidelined in these reforms.
We will provide further updates on Thriving Kids next week.
Members are also encouraged to review AAPi’s Federal Budget Summary for additional information regarding Thriving Kids funding and broader mental health and early intervention investment announcements.
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