ASD children fall through cracks after NDIS reform
There are fears that children with severe autism have had funding cuts as an unforeseen consequence of the NDIS Reform.
KENNEDY MP, Bob Katter MP has expressed his deep concern and outrage over the significant funding cuts affecting children with serious autism under recent National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) reforms. Following alarming reports from families and support networks across Australia, Mr. Katter has called on the Federal Government to urgently address these failings and ensure that no child is left without the vital support they need.
According to an article by the ABC, the reforms, which began even before the Amendment Bill passed in August, have created a myriad of challenges for families of children with autism. These include reduced funding allocations and distressing interactions during planning processes, leaving families feeling traumatised and unsupported. While the NDIS has signaled a willingness to engage with affected families, Mr. Katter stressed that much more needs to be done.
“I have a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach after hearing the feedback from families with autistic children who have endured deeply traumatic experiences during their dealings with NDIS representatives,” Mr Katter said. “The line of questioning and the constant reduction in funding demonstrate a clear agenda to save money at the expense of some of the most vulnerable members of our society.”
Mr Katter was particularly critical of the disparity in funding priorities within the NDIS.
“What kind of Government would associate its name with legislative changes that allow adult participants to have $20,000 respite holidays while denying children access to speech therapy—a fundamental right that allows them to communicate and engage with the world around them?”
Mr Katter, who has an autistic grandson, revealed that he met with the Minister for the NDIS in November last year to raise these issues directly, underscoring the urgent need for reform and better oversight of the scheme. At the meeting, Mr Katter told the Minister of his grandson Alfie's success with the brisbane based AEIOU program.
"For a long time there was no sign of life with Alfie. But now, he talks and fights and wrestles me. He's a different kid and walking proof that these programs like the AEIOU are worth their weight in gold.'
Despite these discussions, the situation has escalated for many families.
“This is not just a policy failure—this is a moral failing,” Mr Katter said.
“We need immediate action to rectify these injustices and ensure that no child is left behind due to bureaucratic inefficiencies and misplaced priorities.”
Mr Katter is urging the Federal Government to conduct a thorough review of recent changes and to commit to fully supporting families of children with autism through increased funding, transparent processes, and compassionate engagement.
ENDS
