As a parent of four children with autism, I face many challenges every day. Managing their therapy sessions is crucial for their development and well-being. However, the inconsistency of therapy appointments due to last-minute cancellations by therapists is causing significant disruptions in our lives.

When I am forced to cancel an appointment due to unforeseen emergencies, I am charged a cancellation fee under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Yet, when therapists cancel appointments last minute or arrive late, there is currently no accountability or penalties in place. This double standard is not only unfair but it places an undue financial and emotional burden on families like mine.

Every canceled appointment without due notice leads to wasted time, unnecessary costs, and extreme stress for my children, who struggle with changes in routine. For instance, when appointments are canceled without prior notice, I have had to deal with meltdowns from my children. Additionally, I frequently incur taxi expenses, as I do not own a car, to ensure they are not distressed by the sudden change. For parents dealing with autism, the stability of routine is paramount and constant disruptions can lead to violent temper outbursts from children who cannot understand the reason for the change.

Therefore, I am calling on the NDIS and therapy providers to implement policies that hold therapists accountable for canceling appointments without sufficient notice. A system must be established where therapists face consequences similar to the fees imposed on clients, promoting a fair balance.

Such measures could include financial penalties for therapists who cancel within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment, unless there is a valid emergency. This policy can encourage therapists to honor their commitments or at least provide adequate notice, allowing families to make alternative plans in a timely manner.

Implementing these changes would not only ensure fairness but also improve the quality and reliability of services provided to families with special needs children. Families like mine deserve consistency and accountability from those who are supposed to support us.

Please sign this petition to demand accountability from therapists when they cancel appointments at the last minute and help ensure a fair and responsible system that respects the needs of both families and providers.