The Federal Government has committed $990,000 over four years for the Autism Association of NSW to establish a resources centre and a BUILDING BLOCKS ® early intervention program for 120 children living on the far north coast of NSW and their families.

The funding was announced in Ballina on September 28 by the Minister for Children & Youth Affairs, Larry Anthony. At the same time, Tim Fischer, Patron of the Association, launched a report on the community consultation which formed the basis of the Association’s submission to the Federal Government.

Adrian Ford, Chief Executive Officer of the Autism Association of NSW, said he was delighted with the Government’s support. “This will be the first true regional base outside of the urban sprawl from Newcastle to the Illawarra established by the Association. It is a major move forward for the whole Association and builds on the work we have been doing, particularly in extending our reach to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families. It also builds on our strong commitment to expanding early intervention services,” he said.

The Association will be working to establish the base over the next few months.

View excerpts from the submission. (318KB)

View the Autism Association of NSW media release. (129KB)

View the media release from Larry Anthony MP, Federal Member for Richmond and Minister for Children & Youth Affairs. (110KB)