Select Committee on Autism
Submission 22 - Attachment 1
ABN 27 369 160 573
Inc. No. A0007531T
AFSA AGENDA OF ISSUES 2019-20
The purpose of the Autism Family Support Association (AFSA) is to assist and support individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by providing emotional and practical support for parents, carers and families. AFSA is an incorporated, state wide voluntary parent based support group. Through parent-to-parent support, our aim is to improve the outcomes and quality of life for individuals with ASD and their families and carers.
AFSA calls on the Victorian government to facilitate
#1… Improving the quality and skills of all levels of support staff working with people with Autism Spectrum Disorder including specialist training. #2… Removal of all Restrictive Practices and replace with acceptable Behaviour Management Strategies, Behaviour Support Plans, Functional Behaviour Assessments and Safeguards. #3… Provision of support for the use of effective Communication Strategies and Techniques including a Functional Communication Plan. #4… Effective consultation and communication by government and services with parents, carers, families and people with Autism Spectrum Disorder - ie those with the lived experience. #5… Adequately resourced advocacy services to ensure they are relevant, useful and available to all. #6… Improvement of transition arrangements between services at critical age milestones. #7… Development of more responsive and accessible complaints systems at Commonwealth and State levels. #8… Making mainstream schools and services more ASD friendly #9… Provision of accommodation/housing and respite options that are appropriate and adequate to meet demand including safe housing and support in times of crisis. #10… Provision of an effective response service to support families/carers and individuals with ASD experiencing crises including family counselling. #11… Action on the recommendations made by recent government reports. #12… Preparation of regular report cards on the performance of the NDIA, Victorian Department of Health & Human Services and the Victorian Department of Education & Training re ASD services, including regular reviews of and accountability for relevant Government expenditure. #13… Improvements to the criminal justice system – training for first responders and other staff and supports for individuals and families who interact with the justice system.
AND
#14… The establishment of an ASD Hub that will #15… Make it easier for those with ASD and their families/carers to access services; #16… Provide regular medical reviews for people with ASD; #17… Provide financial & related advice for parents/families and people with ASD; and #18… Provide planning now for individuals and families for their future.