The Deep Dive Round Table #1 - National Autism Strategy
Join Dr Naomi Malone and Courtney Rosato for a deep discussion on the National Autism Strategy that was recently released by the Australian Government.
Naomi's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/naomi-malone3537/
Courtney's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-rosato-47628b1a5/
We would also love to hear your thoughts - https://form.jotform.com/250073094820047
SUMMARY
The discussion focused on the National Autism Strategy released by the Australian government. Key points included the strategy's strengths, such as co-design and inclusion of autistic voices, but highlighted areas for improvement, like the lack of detailed guidance on school education and inconsistencies in state-level implementation. Concerns were raised about workforce shortages, particularly in regional areas, and the need for better-aligned policies and funding. The strategy's potential impact on employment and leadership opportunities for autistic individuals was also discussed, emphasizing the importance of consistent and sustainable implementation across sectors.
Action Items
[ ] Analyze the financial and economic aspects of the National Autism Strategy to assess if the allocated funding is sufficient.
[ ] Investigate how the strategy can influence legislative changes and increase accountability for organizations to implement the recommendations.
[ ] Develop a clear plan to address the workforce shortages, particularly in the education sector, to ensure the successful implementation of the strategy.
Outline
Introduction and Welcome
Speaker 3 welcomes everyone to the deep dive podcast and mentions the availability of merchandise.
Speaker 2 introduces the host, Michael Coles.
Speaker 3 introduces the topic: the National Autism Strategy released by the Australian government.
Speaker 3 introduces the guests: Dr. Naomi Malone, Courtney Rosato, and their respective roles and backgrounds.
Initial Thoughts on the National Autism Strategy
Speaker 5 (Naomi) highlights the strength of the strategy due to its co-design aspect and inclusion of autistic voices.
Speaker 4 (Courtney) agrees, emphasizing the importance of co-design and accountability in the strategy.
Speaker 4 mentions the critical component of implementation and the need for clear guidelines.
Speaker 3 asks for improvements to the strategy.
Potential Improvements to the National Autism Strategy
Speaker 5 suggests more detailed guidance on school and education aspects.
Speaker 4 agrees, noting the inconsistency in the education system and the need for a framework to align states.
Speaker 4 expresses concern about the lack of a clear path for implementation in education.
Speaker 3 asks for the ideal scenario when the strategy is implemented.
Ideal Scenario for Implementation
Speaker 5 envisions collaboration between sectors like education, NDIS, mental health, and employment.
Speaker 4 emphasizes the need for organizations to address systemic barriers and structural issues.
Speaker 4 highlights the importance of policies being implemented with fidelity and the need for upskilling the workforce.
Speaker 4 expresses concern about the workforce shortages and the lack of expertise in regional areas.
Challenges in Implementation
Speaker 4 discusses the lack of understanding and implementation of neuro-affirming practices in education.
Speaker 4 mentions the need for capacity building and the challenges of implementing recommendations without adequate workforce.
Speaker 5 agrees, noting the importance of professional bodies acknowledging and encouraging neuro-affirming practices.
Speaker 3 asks about potential problems with the implementation of the scheme.
Potential Problems in Implementation
Speaker 4 highlights systemic issues, outdated policies, and the lack of understanding among professionals.
Speaker 4 shares personal experiences of being the only specialist in the field and the challenges of advocating for neuro-affirming practices.
Speaker 4 emphasizes the need for organizations to have an appetite for learning and capacity building.
Speaker 5 adds the importance of integrating neuro-affirming practices in tertiary education and the role of professional bodies.
Barriers in the Diagnosis Process
Speaker 3 asks about barriers in the diagnosis process and how the strategy will address them.
Speaker 5 identifies financial barriers and the shortage of trained clinicians, especially in regional areas.
Speaker 4 agrees, noting the need for clinicians to change their practice to reflect a strengths-based approach.
Speaker 4 discusses the stigma attached to autism diagnoses and the focus on autistic leaders in the strategy.
Employment and Reasonable Adjustments
Speaker 3 brings up the challenges autistic people face in employment and the need for accommodations.
Speaker 5 believes the strategy provides a foundation but acknowledges the need for more work.
Speaker 4 discusses the importance of capacity building and the need for organizations to have mechanisms for monitoring and reviewing reasonable adjustments.
Speaker 4 highlights the need for consistent implementation and accountability in reasonable adjustment policies.
Funding and Workforce Shortages
Speaker 3 asks if the $47 million funding is sufficient for the next six years.
Speaker 5 and Speaker 4 agree that more funding is needed and express concerns about funding inequities among states.
Speaker 4 mentions the lack of a clear plan to combat workforce shortages, especially in education.
Speaker 5 adds that allied health shortages are already significant and will impact the implementation of the strategy.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Speaker 3 thanks Naomi and Courtney for their participation and insights.
Speaker 3 invites listeners to email their opinions to admin@deepdive.au.net.
The meeting concludes with expressions of gratitude from the participants.