The Autism Co-operative Research Centre (CRC) has published Australia's first National Guideline for the assessment and diagnosis of autism.
All Australians who require assessment for autism spectrum conditions are entitled to an early, affordable and comprehensive diagnostic process. The Guideline provides an opportunity to ensure a nationally consistent and equitable experience across the lifespan for families and individuals seeking a diagnosis.
"Everybody deserves to receive a consistent and professional service throughout their diagnosis journey regardless of where they live in Australia" states Paul Micallef, autistic Co-Chair of the Australian Autism Alliance. "The National Guideline is the first step in achieving that goal and the Autism CRC should be congratulated".
Establishing a diagnosis should ensure a pathway to services, supports and information that empowers individuals to participate in their communities.
Terry Burke, Co-Chair of the Alliance says "We will support the NDIA Autism Advisory Group in reviewing information on barriers to implementation and implications for eligibility. However, there are also broader considerations such as interfaces with other systems, funding, affordability and the capacity of diagnosticians to deliver on the Guideline".
The Australian Autism Alliance is one strong voice for autism. We will seek to work collaboratively with the Autism CRC, the NDIA and other relevant government departments to establish a national governance framework for quality monitoring.
Current problems with diagnosis means that the enormous potential of autistic Australians is not being realised.
Adequate resourcing for effective implementation and evaluation across different service systems and across States and Territories is vital.
