The Albanese Government has allocated a further $2 million to the Autism Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) to assist in the development of a National Autism Strategy. The funding package, that will span key areas including healthcare, education and employment will support Autism CRC for 12 months, intended to form a whole-of-life plan for all autistic Australians.
Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said the government is partnering with Autism CRC to ensure families with lived experience of autism are kept closely informed about the strategy.
“A considered, evidence-based approach to consultation is not only vital in developing meaningful policy, but also in ensuring the voices of autistic Australians and the broader community are heard,” the minister said.
Autism CRC chief executive Andrew Davis said, “For the first time, Australia will have a coordinated national approach to better services, supports and life outcomes for autistic Australians and their families.”
An Oversight Council will be established with the first meeting expected in March.