I am a 29-year-old health professional from New South Wales, diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 5 and Autism at 25. Throughout my life, I have experienced firsthand the challenges these conditions present. Now, as a health professional, I witness the profound impact that exorbitant assessment costs have on hundreds of people every day, including my own loved ones.

A diagnosis is not just a label—it is the critical first step toward accessing the support and resources needed to thrive in daily life. However, the harsh reality is that the prohibitive costs prevent many people from taking this step, leaving them without hope of receiving the help they desperately need.

In Australia, an ADHD assessment can cost between $700 and $2,500, while an Autism diagnosis can reach up to $3,000. These prices often exclude additional follow-up psychiatric or psychology sessions. For many individuals and families, these costs are insurmountable, creating a barrier to the tailored support services, educational accommodations, and workplace adjustments that are essential for living a fulfilling life.

This is why we are calling on the Australian federal government to take immediate action to reduce these costs. Alleviating this financial burden is not just about dollars and cents—it’s about giving individuals the keys to unlock their potential and lead more fulfilling, productive lives.

Consider this: an estimated 1 in 20 Australians (around 1.2 million people) are affected by ADHD. Similarly, evidence suggests that 1 in 25 Australians are on the Autism spectrum. These statistics represent a substantial portion of our community, yet the needs of these individuals continue to be overlooked.

We need your support to bring this issue to the forefront. By signing this petition, you can help us urge the Australian government to address this urgent problem. Together, we can push for changes that make assessments more accessible and affordable for everyone. Let’s ensure no one in our community is left to struggle without the support they need.

We have also started a federal petition on this topic, which you can find here: https://www.aph.gov.au/e-petitions/petition/EN6801/sign

While a separate Change.org petition has gathered significant public support, only the federal petition can be submitted to parliament for formal consideration. This makes the next 14 days a crucial window to build momentum and amplify voices from across the country.

If you have your own story about struggling to access diagnostic services or ADHD/Autism support in Australia, please share it with us by emailing costofneurodivergency@outlook.com. Together, our voices can spark real change.