Premier Morris Iemma today announced the State’s biggest expansion of early intervention services for children with autism, including an autism-specific child-care centre in Western Sydney.
Mr Iemma said the $6 million package would give children with autism and their families the best possible start in life.
"The number of children diagnosed with autism in NSW is on the rise and that’s why we are delivering these intensive early intervention services to help these kids get the best start in life," Mr Iemma said.
"Research tells us that no single approach works for all children with autism and that’s why we’re delivering a range of services to pre-school aged children and their families.
"We know that the earlier we intervene in a child’s life, the bigger the difference we can make to help them reach their full potential.
"About 300 children a year under six are diagnosed with autism. Many already receive support, but without access to new and expanded services many kids could suffer significant long-term social problems."
Mr Iemma said the new services would provide direct support to at least 660 children aged between two and six years during the next four years.
The services include:
• $1.24 million for a child-care centre in Western Sydney to help children with autism attend mainstream schools without the use of an aid;
• $2 million for the rollout of 20-week targeted programs for preschool aged children;
• $2 million to provide centre-based and home-based services by special education teachers and therapists;
• $500,000 for the University of Newcastle to provide training to front line staff who work in early childhood intervention services; and
• $200,000 for the rollout of a DVD and manual to help families of a young child immediately following their diagnosis of autism.
"The $1.2 million AEIOU child-care centre in Western Sydney is based on centres operating in Queensland, which have proven results helping children with autism attend mainstream schools," Mr Iemma said.
"More than 70 per cent of children in the AEIOU program in Queensland have successfully moved into mainstream schools, the majority requiring little or no support.
"The AEIOU service will also provide much needed support for families, with the program providing respite allowing a child’s parents, carers or guardians to take a break from the day-to-day challenges of raising a child with autism."
Minister for Disability Services Kristina Keneally said the $6 million package would significantly expand early intervention services.
"Autism is one of the areas the Iemma Government recognised needed a major injection of funding to help families and I am delighted the Premier is delivering on that promise," Ms Keneally said.
"The new autism packages are part of Better Together, the Iemma Government’s plan to improve services for people with a disability and their families, delivering stronger and more flexible support for children with autism and their families."
Autism Spectrum Australia CEO Adrian Ford said the extra money from the Iemma Government was excellent news for families of children with autism.
"Families want and need more help and more solutions – especially in accessing mainstream services, and it is great to see new and innovative projects being recognised and supported by the Iemma Government," Mr Ford said.
"It is vitally important that children with autism receive a helping hand early in life."