Queenslanders encouraged to take note on Autism

The Palaszczuk Government is encouraging Queenslanders to learn more about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and how people with ASD see the world for World Autism Awareness Day and Autism Awareness Month.

Disability Services Minister Coralee O’Rourke said it was important for the community to understand the challenges people with autism and their families face, and how Queensland could become more inclusive.

“Our world is made up of many different kinds of people and just like everyone else, no two people with autism are the same and nor are their symptoms,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“Because of this, people with autism and their families can often feel extremely isolated because others don’t understand or know how to react to the way they behave. Especially when they may have trouble putting their thoughts into words.

“While some people with autism are high functioning, others may have trouble eating certain foods because of the way they taste, or be very sensitive to certain smells or sounds, which can make them feel upset or anxious.

“They could also become upset when their surroundings or schedules change, because new or different things can be difficult or scary for them – which means simple outings like going to the grocery shop are not really simple at all.

“While people with autism may have difficulties with certain activities, just like everyone else, they also have many special talents and abilities.

“They may find it much easier to finish complicated puzzles, remember lyrics to songs after only listening to them once or be unbeatable at computer games, and these examples are only the tip of the iceberg.

“World Autism Awareness Day and Autism Awareness Month is an important reminder that while some people think, learn and express themselves differently, they are otherwise just like us.”

Mrs O’Rourke said this year’s World Autism Awareness Day theme ‘Toward Autonomy and Self-Determination’ fit well with the Palaszczuk Government’s vision to increase opportunities for people with disability to live the life they choose.

“With the help of Queenslanders of all abilities, we are creating a new disability plan that will pave the way towards a more inclusive future,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“State-wide consultation on our Government’s ‘Towards an all abilities Queensland’ paper closed at the end of February, and now we’re reviewing more than 500 responses.

“This great feedback will help direct our future policies across five key areas of personal and community relationships, recreation and tourism, working and learning, key services, and leadership and contribution, as we transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme.”

The Palaszczuk Government funds more than 200 service providers to deliver a range of supports to Queensland children and adults with autism, from therapies, to support and respite.

For more information on autism and available services visit www.qld.gov.au/disability/community/autism/

Media Contact:                                  Minister O’Rourke’s office                  0408 317 992