November Policy and Advocacy Update

Amaze continues to share autistic experiences with government at a federal and state level, and to push for improvements in the systems around autistic Australians.

Senate Inquiry into Autism 

Published a major submission to the Senate Inquiry into Autism, in conjunction with the Australian Autism Alliance. 

National Disability Insurance Scheme 

Undertaken ongoing advocacy against the proposed introduction of mandatory assessments by the NDIA, including development of a joint statement with the Australian Autism Alliance.  

We have also provided a submission to the NDIA on the future design of support coordination. 

Royal Commission into Violence, Neglect, Abuse and Exploitation of People with Disability          

Published a submission to the Disability Royal Commission in conjunction with the Australian Autism Alliance.  

The Commission has just released an interim report of its work to date, which highlights areas it will focus on more closely in the next stage of its work.  

Education 

Amaze conducted a survey to learn about the experiences of autistic people at Victorian TAFEs. The survey was conducted with our friends at Aspergers Vic, Different Journeys, I CAN Network and Yellow Ladybugs and will provide important input into the Victorian Parliament’s Inquiry into access to TAFE for people with disability. 

Ongoing advocacy to the Victorian Government on the need for an Autism Education Strategy, and engagement with the Victorian Parliament about the impacts of the pandemic on autistic people. Your responses to our Learning in Lockdown Survey (experiences of autistic schools students and their families during school disruptions) have been incredibly valuable. 

Mental Health 

Advising Mental Health Reform Victoria on the design of key reforms from the Mental Health Royal Commission, including on how autistic voices can be engaged in designing the HOPE service, which supports people at risk of self-harm.