Media Release

Autistic Australians and their carers are calling for answers after a long-awaited plan to address the disparities in healthcare for Autistic individuals was today released by the Australian Government's Department of Health, with the disclaimer that funding is yet to be secured. 

The roadmap, which was drafted in December 2024 was reviewed by Minister Rishworth and Minister Butler before reaching the Prime Minister’s desk, who declined funding under his government.

Monique Blakemore, from peak body Autism Aspergers Advocacy Australia, said the National Autism Roadmap is a critical part of the Autism Strategy, but no funding for the vital work lets down Autistic Australians. "For the autism community, this is not just disappointing—it is devastating," she said "The Roadmap clearly outlines the health and mental health inequalities that Autistic individuals experience on a daily basis.

Autistic people suffer poorer physical and mental health than the general population and in a study of Australian mortality data, Autistic people died at twice the rate of the general population. This is thought to be because of increased rates of co-existing health and mental health conditions, including completed suicides.  

Monique Blakemore from A4 says “the message we have received is clear: our health, our lives, and our future are, in the eyes of those in power are worth nothing, not even the loose change that could be found at the bottom of a pocket. It is a gross betrayal of Autistic people to be promised, given hope, that our health is a priority but receive no funding to make the meaningful changes necessary to improve our life outcomes”

Autism Asperger Advocacy Australia (A4), who represent Autistic Australians, their carers and supporters, will continue to call on the government to take immediate action. 

"Autistic Australians deserve better than empty promises" Ms Blakemore said. "Our health matters, our lives matter, and we will not stop advocating until this critical issue is addressed with the seriousness and commitment it deserves"  

Monique Blakemore
Autism Advocate and Consultant

see also https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/national-roadmap-to-improve-the-health-and-mental-health-of-autistic-people-2025-2035