Australia news live: PM rules out new gas export tax on existing contracts; major childcare chain to close dozens of centres after abuse scandal

Queensland's Health Minister has voiced significant reservations about the federal government's "Thriving Kids" initiative. This program aims to transition children under nine with mild developmental delays and autism out of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Queensland remains the sole state not to have agreed to the plan, which is slated for full implementation by 2028. The minister emphasized the state's commitment to ensuring any replacement system adequately supports these young children and their families, expressing concern that the federal government is shifting costs to the states.

The Queensland government's hesitation highlights ongoing state-federal tensions regarding disability support funding and the potential impact on vulnerable children.