Written by Clare Jones, (B Occ Thy), MediRecruit

Podiatry plays a vital role in supporting early childhood development, and recent work by the Australian Podiatry Association (APodA) highlights just how important this is. APodA recently submitted a detailed response to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Disability Inquiry into the Thriving Kids (TK) initiative, calling for podiatry to be meaningfully included in funding and service delivery models.

What Is the Thriving Kids Initiative?

The Thriving Kids initiative focuses on children aged 9 and under with developmental delays and/or autism who have low to moderate support needs. It’s designed to enhance community and mainstream services through early intervention.

The Role of Podiatry in Early Childhood Development

Podiatrists are uniquely positioned to support these children by assessing and treating lower-limb and foot conditions that can impact development. This includes identifying “red flags,” providing early intervention, and helping children develop gross motor skills such as walking, balance, and coordination, all critical for learning, play, and overall development.

Children with developmental delays and/or autism may face mobility, gait, or balance challenges. Podiatrists, as allied health professionals with specialized expertise, can intervene early, supporting multidisciplinary care teams to improve overall developmental outcomes.

APodA’s Recommendations to Strengthen the Initiative

APodA’s submission to the Thriving Kids Inquiry includes practical recommendations to strengthen the initiative, including:

• Ensuring allied health perspectives, including podiatry, are represented on advisory groups
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• Establishing funding mechanisms so children can access podiatry assessments and treatments
• Supporting multidisciplinary consultations and flexible visit numbers based on clinical need
• Creating clear referral pathways from GPs, Maternal Child Health Nurses, and other primary contacts
• Including podiatry in broader Medicare programs for neurodevelopmental conditions
• Developing educational resources for families and healthcare providers about allied health roles

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These recommendations aim to improve early identification, ensure equitable access to podiatry care, and embed a child-centred, multidisciplinary approach in early intervention services.

Podiatry Recognised as a Targeted Support

The Thriving Kids Advisory Group final report now includes podiatry as a Targeted Support, highlighting its importance in improving developmental outcomes through periodic, evidence-based support delivered by trained allied health professionals, including podiatrists.

Key Program Details

• Commences 1 October 2026, with full implementation by 1 January 2028
• Operates as a standalone program, separate from the NDIS
• Delivered through state governments for children aged 9 and under with mild to moderate developmental delays
• Children with permanent and significant disabilities will continue receiving support via the NDIS

What Happens Next?

While some operational details, like referral, assessment, and exit pathways, are still being defined, APodA continues to work closely with Allied Health Professions Australia (AHPA) to ensure podiatry is represented and accessible for children who need it.

Why This Matters

Early intervention is critical for lifelong development, and podiatrists have a tangible impact on children’s mobility, participation, and confidence. By supporting the Thriving Kids initiative, podiatrists are helping to build stronger foundations for children’s futures, literally from the ground up.

Read the full APodA submission here: APodA Thriving Kids Inquiry Submission