The National Autism Strategy – A Step Forward or a Missed Opportunity?

Dr. Saga Arthursson, PhD., PsychSc., AAMI

admin@sagapsychology.com.au

This blog post was generated using AI and is based on information from an article published by InSight+ (link to original article).

Photo from Pexels.

The National Autism Strategy (NAS) has been introduced to create a more neuro-affirming and inclusive society, but its arrival alongside NDIS support cuts for autistic children has sparked concern.

Nicole Rogerson, CEO of Autism Awareness Australia, expresses mixed feelings about the National Autism Strategy (NAS), acknowledging it as a good idea but lacking key components. Here are 5 key points are raising concerns.

1. The NAS Is Incomplete

• While the strategy is a positive step, many families don’t see how it will improve their lives.

• It fails to include agreements with state governments, meaning crucial areas like education, healthcare, and housing are not properly addressed.

  
  

2. Early Intervention Is Overlooked

• The biggest failure is the lack of focus on early intervention and proper support in schools.

• Without this foundation, achieving the broader goals of the strategy will be impossible.

  
  

3. NDIS Cuts Are a Major Concern

• The government miscalculated autism prevalence, leading to cost overruns in the NDIS.

• Now, many autistic children are losing access to crucial supports.

• This is a short-term cost-saving measure that will lead to greater expenses later, as unsupported children grow into adults with higher support needs.

  
  

4. The Burden on GPs and Healthcare

• The loss of NDIS-funded services means families will turn to GPs for help, but there are no clear solutions for them.

• Medicare reforms have already strained the healthcare system, and this will worsen the pressure on doctors.

  
  

5. Public Perception of the NDIS Is at Risk

• Negative headlines about NDIS “fraud” and cost blowouts could damage public trust in the scheme.

• If people lose faith in the NDIS, long-term funding and support for autistic individuals may suffer.

  
  

Nicole concludes that while the NAS has potential, it is missing key structural elements, particularly state cooperation and early intervention. Meanwhile, NDIS cuts risk leaving autistic children without crucial supports, forcing families to seek solutions that don’t currently exist.

Where Can Families Learn More About the National Autism Strategy (NAS)?

For families seeking more information about the National Autism Strategy (NAS) and how it may impact them, the following resources can help:

1. Government Resources

• Department of Social Services (DSS) – National Autism Strategy

  • Official updates, policy details, and funding information.

  • Visit: www.dss.gov.au

• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

  • Check eligibility and changes to autism-related supports.

  • Visit: www.ndis.gov.au

2. Autism Advocacy Organisations

• Autism Awareness Australia

  • Led by Nicole Rogerson, this organisation provides resources and advocacy updates.

  • Visit: www.autismawareness.com.au

• Autism Aspergers Advocacy Australia (A4)

  • Advocacy group tracking NDIS changes and policy developments.

  • Visit: www.a4.org.au

• Reframing Autism

  • A neuro-affirming organisation supporting autistic individuals and families.

  • Visit: www.reframingautism.org.au

3. News & Expert Insights

• InSight+ (MJA)

  • Articles from autism experts discussing NAS and NDIS changes.

  • Read the original article here

• La Trobe University – Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre (OTARC)

  • Research-based insights on autism policy and interventions.

  • Visit: www.latrobe.edu.au/otarc

    
    

Need Help?

If you’re unsure how the NAS and NDIS changes will affect your child, contact your local autism support organisation or GP for guidance on available services.

This information has been compiled based on publicly available resources. This blog post was generated using AI and is based on an article published by InSight+.