NSW Minister for Disability Services, Kristina Keneally today welcomed the Rudd Government’s commitment of $190 million for services for children with autism and their families.
Ms Keneally said that today’s funding would complement the good work that the Iemma Government is doing to improve services for children with Autism in New South Wales.
"The number of children diagnosed with autism in NSW is on the rise and that’s why it’s important that the State and Federal Government work together to deliver intensive early intervention services to help these kids get the best start in life," Ms Keneally said.
"We know that the earlier we intervene in the life of a child with autism, the bigger the difference we can make to help them reach their full potential.
"The $190 million funding boost from the Rudd Government will complement the services we are already providing for children with Autism and their families, including our $6 million package announced in March this year."
Ms Keneally said that under that package, 660 children aged between two and six years old will receive support over four years. Services within the package include:
• $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;
• $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;
• $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.
"Providing services for children with autism is a key focus of the Iemma Government, and I‘m delighted the Rudd Government is helping us to deliver in this very important area," Ms Keneally said.
"Today’s announcement is a positive step in improving services for people with a disability and their families, delivering stronger and more flexible support for children with autism and their families."