Kids on the autism spectrum experience more bullying

By bobb |
boy huddled

Daniel Lin, Valsamma Eapen

A new study has found autism is the top risk factor for bullying among all neurodiversities.

Children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, experience various types of challenges at school. This might be due to communication, and also relationships with other children.

Accumulating evidence indicates children on the autism spectrum are more likely to be bullied.

‘Fighting for her voice’: mother locked in legal battle with NDIS over daughter’s talker

By bobb |
Ella Stephens and her mother Melanie use her talker device to communicate

Melanie Stephens is caught up in Administrative Appeals Tribunal case after being denied funding for a device to help Ella communicate

A Victorian mother is locked in a battle with the National Disability Insurance Agency over her daughter’s “voice”. At least that’s how Melanie Stephens describes the “talker” device her daughter Ella has been using for four years.

Ella, 11, lives with autism and the rare genetic syndrome cri du chat (5p-), which causes delayed physical development and intellectual disability. She is non-verbal.

First-of-its-kind guideline to improve supports for autistic children and families

By bobb |
boy and man (with iPad) looking at camera

Anna Christian

Autism CRC, an independent national research organisation focusing on best practice in relation to autism, has released a draft version of the first ever Australian national guideline to supporting autistic children and their families.

Once finalised, the National Guideline for supporting the learning, participation, and wellbeing of autistic children and their families in Australia will be used to ensure children can access the safe and effective supports that they want.

National Guideline for supporting autistic children and their families

By convenor |

Draft release for public consultation

Community consultation closes at 5pm (AEST) on August 29. All members of the community are welcome to provide feedback.

A draft version of the National Guideline for supporting the learning, participation, and wellbeing of autistic children and their families in Australia is now available for community feedback.

Autistic mums face stigma, misunderstanding

By bobb |
mother with child on hip facing away from camera into sunset

Savannah Pocock

Imagine that you are a teenager lying on a hospital bed receiving an ultra-sound because your doctor thought that may you have some ovarian cysts.

Suddenly, the nurse’s eyebrows furrow as she hurriedly turns the screen away from view.

Naturally, you freak out. ‘What is it?’ you ask the nurse.

She tells you everything is okay, turns off the screen and leaves the room.

After what feels like a decade, the nurse re-enters the room and tells you that you need to meet with your doctor,

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