PRESS RELEASE UPDATE

Whilst we await the release of the Federal Government Budget in the next 24 hours Autism Victoria is pleased to provide a further response to the Victoria State Budget.

As we previously stated Autism Victoria is delighted to note State Government has recognized the unique nature of Autism Spectrum Disorders and has allocated funding to provide increased resources to support early intervention, training and co-ordination of service provision.

Equally Autism Victoria was pleased to note the allocation of funding to support Research into Autism Spectrum Disorders was clearly recognition by State Government of the importance of research in the efforts to support interventions for families. 

Likewise the commitment to fund specific opportunities for Teaching staff to undertake studies at Diploma level will go some way towards the creation of a better prepared school system.

It was also encouraging to note the Minister, whilst providing the budget briefing, indicated and acknowledged the budget initiatives were the first step in the broader strategy of implementing the goals of the Autism State Plan.

In saying that and recognising this is a positive first step Autism Victoria is also keen to see State Government pursue further initiatives particularly with regards the needs of older people with Autism Spectrum Disorders.  Autism Victoria would like to see support to assist individuals to transition into employment and perhaps to develop additional accommodation models that can meet the specific accommodation needs of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism Victoria was pleased to partner State Government in the development of the Autism State Plan and in line with the Ministers comments at the budget briefing we look forward to the announcement of additional funding for Autism specific services.

Murray Dawson-Smith

Chief Executive Officer

ceo@autismvictoria.org.au