Since the release of the Independent Review of Disability Support Services of the 5th of August, Autism NZ has been gathering information, hearing feedback from the community and considering the most productive way forward for the autistic and wider autism communities.
Autism NZ has supported and advocated for autistic people since its beginnings in 1969, and has grown significantly, particularly in recent years. The government contracts we have gained have allowed us to deliver crucial services to the community, including education, early support for preschool aged children and employment support for autistic adults.
We are constantly advocating for systemic change: social change, to increase inclusion and understanding for all autistic people; early identification and support; access to neuro-affirming, affordable and timely diagnosis for autistic people, including adults; support for teachers, education staff and autistic learners; autism-specific housing; mental health support and lifelong support.
The months since Whaikaha’s disappointing announcement regarding changes to purchasing rules have been challenging for the autistic community.
Autism NZ initially welcomed the review of Disability Support Services (DSS) and the role of Whaikaha, because so many aspects of the system were not serving the autistic community.
The review, however, raises several urgent concerns, that have not been sufficiently addressed. The review identifies the increase in autism diagnoses, and the increased number of autistic people accessing DSS. The review also notes that a 2014 decision made by the Minister of Health – that clients with autism as their ‘sole impairment’ would be eligible for DSS – was not passed by Cabinet.
As yet, we have had no clear messaging on what these statements mean for the autistic community. Despite repeated requests, the Minister for Disability Issues has declined to meet with Autism NZ. There has been no genuine consultation with the autistic and wider autism communities throughout the review process, and a complete lack of reassurance that autistic people will continue to be eligible for DSS, and are of value to the Minister and our nation as a whole.
Autism NZ CE, Dane Dougan, states: “Given that autistic clients represent one of the largest cohorts of people accessing DSS, we are left confused as to why the Minister has not prioritised meeting with us. The lack of consultation is deeply concerning.”
Autism NZ is ready and willing to work with the Minister, Whaikaha and the wider government to ensure that the needs of autistic people are met in ways that are neuro-affirming, aligned with the Enabling Good Lives principals, empowering to the community and cost-effective.
We have presented a new model for systemic change to the previous Minister for Disability Issues, Penny Simmons, the Social Services and Community Select Committee, and a range of other members of parliament, with excellent feedback and support.
This model is based on existing programmes and services that could be rolled out quickly, at relatively low cost, with a significant and proven social return. Our early support programme alone has capacity to save this and future governments a hundred million dollars per year.
The autistic community deserves to be heard, supported, consulted and celebrated. If the government ignores or sidelines the autistic community’s needs, all evidence shows that we will only see poor outcomes, and increased need in almost every other area, including education, justice, mental health and employment.
Autistic people are not budgets. Autistic people are not numbers. Autistic peoples’ rights and lives cannot be compromised based on figures or loopholes in legislation.
Autistic people are valuable. Autistic people are individuals. Autistic people have the right to achieve their goals and live a good life, just like anyone else – even if that means investing in supports.
Autism NZ is waiting to be met with the same passion, logic and consideration we have extended to the community, and to the Minister for Disability Issues.
