I am a parent of autistic twins who rely on the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for essential support and ongoing therapy. This support is crucial for helping them develop into well-rounded adults who can navigate the world with more independence and become less of a burden on society. However, it deeply concerns me that Mark Butler MP is proposing a shift of autistic children from the NDIS to a new scheme called Thriving Kids.

It is disheartening to hear statements suggesting that autism is a mild and non-permanent condition when, in fact, it is lifelong. Autism isn't something individuals can grow out of or shake off over time. What has changed is not the prevalence of autism itself, but the increased recognition and diagnosis, as our society becomes more aware of neurodiversity.

Autism has always existed in our communities; it didn’t just appear from nowhere overnight. Many of us grew up surrounded by peers who, today, may have an autism diagnosis. These children deserve the right support to help them thrive in today’s society, and removing them from the support structures like NDIS would be a disservice.

The proposed shift away from NDIS to Thriving Kids is not just about transitioning to a new program. It’s about understanding that each child with autism requires a nuanced, individualized approach to therapy and support, something that has been developed and refined under the NDIS framework. The new program needs to offer tailored solutions that address the specific demands of autistic individuals to ensure they are not left behind.

We need policies and schemes that reflect the realities of living with autism, offering stability and certainty to families who navigate these challenges daily. I urge Mark Butler and policymakers to consider the real-life implications of such a transition and the possible setbacks it could bring to thousands of autistic children.

Let's come together to ensure that autistic individuals receive the consistent, supportive care they need, without unnecessary disruptions. Please sign this petition to halt the transition of autistic kids from the NDIS to Thriving Kids, and advocate for a more inclusive, understanding support system. Your support can make a difference in the lives of many families across Australia.