'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 until 2028.

The Minister's (undated, received 9/10/2025) 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.

response on NDIS legislation missing autistic impairments

By convenor |

A4 received a response (see below) from the NDIS to letters sent previously to multiple ministers - see https://a4.org.au/node/2730 

While the response suggests that the triad of autistic impairments, social, communication, and behavioural impairments, might be beaten into shape under the categories available in the legislation, it shows disappointingly poor understanding of autistic impairments and the needs of autistic Australians. It says ... 

Taking to global stage to champion autistic women and girls

By convenor |

Central Coast-based advocate Monique Blakemore has addressed the United Nations Conference of States Parties in New York to demand justice for autistic women and girls.

“These are not just numbers; these are lives — silenced, dismissed, and denied justice,” she told the conference.

A policy advisor and international disability rights advocate, Blakemore spoke at a high-level side event titled Numbers Don’t Lie: Disability, Autism, Sexual Abuse and Bodily Integrity, hosted by the governments of Spain and Malta.