Note - Please read this carefully as it relates to a controversial topic.

It looks like governments want to take 5 to 10 years to think about what to do about services for people with a disability (see http://a4.org.au/a4/node/139). Should we ask why it will take so long? Why can't they act quicker?

If they really have decided on "objectives on early intervention", then why are the states doing so little to fit their ASD early intervention into the federal government's efforts in this area? If they can't even do early intervention appropriately, what is the prospect for other services?

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090407174813.htm

Teaching Autistic Teens To Make Friends

ScienceDaily (Apr. 8, 2009) — During the first week of class, the teens' eyes were downcast, their responses were mumbled and eye contact was almost nonexistent. By Week 12, though, these same kids were talkative, responsive and engaged.

Hello,

In Dec 2008, DHS announced that it would broaden the eligibility for DHS funding to include children with autism and no cognitive delay. I was wondering whether anyone had tried for this funding and received anything? It seems that DHS is still trying to figure out how they will support this new client group, as all supports were previously geared towards children with a cognitive delay. It seemed a huge hallmark to have children with ASD but no cognitive delay recognized by DHS, but I'm still waiting to hear how in practice this is working.

asdmum

There is growing support for a National Disability Insurance Scheme (see http://www.natdis.com.au/). A paper on the full proposal can be downloaded from http://www.natdis.com.au/NDIS.pdf.

What do A4 members think about this proposal?

The Australian Federal Government released a discussion paper late last year. More information and A4's response so far can be found here. Please tell us what you think:

1. about the federal government's discussion paper; and
2. of A4's submissions and whether it includes your expectations and concerns.

In its submission to the Senate Inquiry into Special Disability Trusts, FaHCSIA told the Committee (see http://a4.org.au/a4/node/52) that

Many people with [autism] may not require care on a daily basis ...