Select Committee on Autism
Submission 22 - Attachment 3
ABN 27 369 160 573
Inc. No. A0007531T
AFSA AGENDA OF NDIS 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 NDIA
#1… To improve its understanding of autism, particularly those with complex needs. This includes areas such as functional communication, those who are non-verbal and behaviours of concern.
#2… To address the lack of appropriate services and a shortage of trained and accredited practitioners and therapists with experience. The NDIA must oversee plans which are evidence based, best practice and supported by data.
#3… And others to provide support services, including providers of last resort and case management, for families of NDIA participants who have complex and/or high support needs. This should be done to prevent unnecessary crises and to prevent relinquishment of family members.
#4… To implement specific mandated service timeframes for plan reviews, complaints, access requests, approvals of assistive technology and specialist accommodation. Remedies for non performance including compensation for maladministration must be available.
#5… To ensure that drafts of plans are provided to all participants.
#6… To develop streamlined processes for participants and families to interact more seamlessly with the NDIA. This would include, where appropriate, direct dealing with Planners (not LACS), longer Plan periods (24 or 36 months) and case management - as distinct from support coordination and other supports.
#7… To act to reduce the reliance on informal supports provided by families of those with complex needs who will be NDIA clients for life. The NDIS plan must provide greater support including case management, crisis support, adequate respite and forward planning for permanent accommodation.
#8… To allow all participants the necessary flexibility in the use of monies provided in packages.
#9… To ensure sufficient transport funding to take account of the needs of participants who are unable to use “regular” transport services and those in residential care.