Autism Awareness Australia (AAA) has welcomed the Commonwealth Government’s first National Autism Strategy but says it must be followed by immediate action to address the significant gaps in support for autistic children who are losing their National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) packages.
AAA Chief Executive Officer Nicole Rogerson said state governments are not ready to support the approximately 600 autistic children who are having their NDIS packages removed every week.
“There needs to be a streamlined approach to address the funding gaps between the Commonwealth and state governments, because the current changes to the NDIS are having a real impact on Australian children,” Ms Rogerson said.
“The unintended consequence of removing Commonwealth support before the states are ready is a generation of autistic kids who don’t get the help they need.”
Ms Rogerson said AAA is calling for additional resources and training for primary and secondary school teachers so they are equipped to support children with autism in the classroom.
“Public schools admit they are not ready to support these kids as they come off their NDIS packages, and both teachers and parents are nervous about these changes having a negative impact on their education,” Ms Rogerson said.
“While the Strategy’s extensive list of commitments is a great start, until they are implemented these kids are missing out on the vital support they need. We need action now to fill the gaps.”
Ms Rogerson acknowledged this was a complex issue but stressed the importance of continued government support.
“The NDIS might not be the home for all children with autism but until we have alternative supports in place, we can’t remove this funding,” Ms Rogerson said.
“We know that a good education sets children up for life – we cannot fail our autistic kids because of a policy flaw.
“Autism Awareness Australia is committed to working with both the Commonwealth and state governments on the implementation of this Strategy to ensure autistic people are at the core.”
For more information about Autism Awareness Australia, visit www.autismawareness.com.au.
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