cruel NDIS policy targets the most autistic and vulnerable NDIS participants

By convenor |

NDIS policy (AAT Case Management Guide Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) - see below) fails some of the youngest and most severely autistic NDIS participants. Clinicians advise that some children with severe/profound or classic autism need intensive early intervention for their autism. NDIS policy (see below) says funding for the required early intervention depends on families winning a case against the government in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).

'Cruel game': cracks showing over NDIS scheme shake-up

By bobb |

Callum Godde

Negotiations on changes to support for autistic children have hit a roadblock as a state premier declares federal Labor is shirking its responsibilities.

The Albanese government wants to move some children with autism and developmental delays off the National Disability Insurance Scheme to rein in spending and keep the scheme viable.

The Thriving Kids program would instead provide early intervention and support for the cohort through mainstream channels such as general practitioners and schools.

Minister's response on ABS SDAC delay

By convenor |

The Hon. Andrew Leigh MP responded negatively to A4's request that the ABS's SDAC survey collect data in 2025 (or 2026) ... ahead of the government's recent decision to wait longer.

The Minister's (undated) response is available below. 

A4 does not understand why the survey would return to a six year cycle during the early stages of NDIS stabilisation (or major reform), the start of Thriving Kids, and the design phase of Foundational Supports for people with disability. 

Saturday Paper Exclusive: NDIA accused of ‘repeated non-compliance’ as it prepares for autism reforms

By bobb |

By Rick Morton.

While advocates say they have been ambushed by Labor’s plans to eject autistic children from the National Disability Insurance Scheme, the agency has been accused of ignoring multiple legal orders. 

At the same time Labor began plans to divert tens of thousands of children from the National Disability Insurance Scheme, the agency responsible for the program has been accused of serially breaching its legal obligations.