The abilityNEWS Daily
The Big Story
Autism advocate Monique Blakemore
“Empty promises”: claims Labor is failing people with autism
People with autism and their carers expressed dismay late last month as the government released its National Autism Roadmap. Autism Aspergers Advocacy Australia warns this omission undermines essential healthcare reforms, leaving Autistic Australians without crucial support.
Autism Asbergers advocate Monique Blakemore says that without secured funding, crucial healthcare reforms remain in doubt. In particular she pointed out that the roadmap, which was crafted to tackle stark health disparities — including Autistic Australians dying at twice the general population's rate — was ultimately rejected for funding by the Prime Minister.
Condemning the move as a "gross betrayal" she insisted many people with autism are still facing significantly worse physical and mental health outcomes, which are exacerbated by frequent co-existing conditions and elevated suicide rates.
Ms Blakemore said the lack of investment signals indifference from government leaders who promised prioritisation but have continually failed to deliver any real financial support. She vows to continue advocating until genuine commitment replaces hollow assurances.
Transfering such resolve into resources will not be easy. Normally, elections offer the opportunity to draw attention to funding gaps. It seems unlikely, however, that this campaign will slip into that particular pattern.
Both sides are seeking to portray themselves as ‘fiscally responsible’ and the pressure will be on to draw the purse-strings tight. Finding extra money for disability will be hard when the budget is already groaning with the spend of (more than) $40 billion dollars on the NDIS.
People with autism and their carers expressed dismay when the government released its National Autism Roadmap late last month.
Autism Asbergers advocate Monique Blakemore says that without secured funding, crucial healthcare reforms remain in doubt. In particular she pointed out that the roadmap, which was crafted to tackle stark health disparities — including Autistic Australians dying at twice the general population's rate — was ultimately rejected for funding by the Prime Minister.
Condemning the move as a "gross betrayal" she insisted many people with autism are still facing significantly worse physical and mental health outcomes, which are exacerbated by frequent co-existing conditions and elevated suicide rates.
Ms Blakemore said the lack of investment signals indifference from government leaders who promised prioritisation but have continually failed to deliver any real financial support. She vows to continue advocating until genuine commitment replaces hollow assurances.
Transfering such resolve into resources will not be easy. Normally, elections offer the opportunity to draw attention to funding gaps. It seems unlikely, however, that this campaign will slip into that particular pattern.
Both sides are seeking to portray themselves as ‘fiscally responsible’ and the pressure will be on to draw the purse-strings tight. Finding extra money for disability will be hard when the budget is already groaning with the spend of (more than) $40 billion dollars on the NDIS.
The Briefing
Regulating Audiologists to align with other healthcare professionals
by Deafness Forum Australia
State and Territory Health Ministers are reviewing options to regulate audiologists, aligning them with other healthcare professionals for public safety. Currently self-regulated, audiologists lack legal title protection, potentially exposing consumers to unqualified practitioners.
Meet Tamsin Colley-Elite Para-athlete and Advocate for Neurodiversity
by Cerebral Palsy Alliance
Tamsin Colley, an elite para-athlete with cerebral palsy and autism, advocates for neurodiversity and inclusive sports through grassroots initiatives. Her work empowers young people with disabilities by fostering social inclusion, representation, and meaningful participation in sport and advocacy.
Colby’s DSV Advisory Network Update
by Down Syndrome Australia
The DSV Advisory Network met at Victoria's Parliament House, where MPs heard their concerns and pledged to advocate for inclusivity. Discussions covered accessibility, mental health, education, and funding, with MPs committing to raise these issues in parliament.
Standing-Down workers impacted by ex-tropical cyclone Alfred
by Jobs Australia
Amplify Alliance has issued guidance for businesses on stand-down provisions after Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred disrupted workplaces. Under the Fair Work Act, affected employees may be stood down without pay, though they can use accrued leave. This may be relevant for both Australian Disability Enterprises and disability support organisations.
The Wrap
Ruthless decision forces mum to carry 33kg son
by The Courier-Mail
Summary: Taegan Stevens, a single mother from Toowoomba, faces challenges transporting her teenage son Oscar, who has severe disabilities and requires a wheelchair. The NDIS denied her request for vehicle funding, stating they only support modifications, not purchases, prompting her to start a GoFundMe campaign to raise $85,000 for a wheelchair-accessible car.
NDIS internship provides opportunity for community impact
by Macquarie University Lighthouse
Studying Actuarial Studies at Macquarie helped Ethan Kwok develop the skills needed to launch a successful career – while also making a meaningful impact through his work at the National Disability Insurance Agency.
$5.1m Tallebudgera mansion, Q1 units to be sold off amid ASIC probe
by Cairns Post
Company receivers controlling the assets of a Gold Coast builder who partially used funds obtained for developing NDIS properties to gamble millions at The Star have secured a win in their bid to claw back value for dudded clients.