Autism New Zealand Slates Government Inaction

Media Release
8 September 2010

Embargoed until Midnight, Thursday, 9 September

Autism New Zealand Chief Executive Slates Government Inaction

In her opening speech at this week’s Autism New Zealand Conference, Chief Executive Alison Molloy has taken a swing at the lack of government funding to support those with Autism.

Ms Molloy says, “We are finding it increasingly frustrating that our ability to undertake the work we do well is being hindered by an apparent lack of commitment and funding as well as increasing accountability requirements which are not focused on true outcomes and which take away from the work we do. We understand that we are in a tight fiscal environment but for many of the families and people we work with, every day has its fiscal and emotional challenges.”

“The education system is not serving our children well. This despite the many schools who work tirelessly and with limited resources to support a culture which accepts “Thinking differently” as a way of life. Our adults have little support which makes finding work and living in a way that meets their needs very difficult. Respite care is inadequate for many as training of staff is limited and those with Autism Spectrum Disorders seem to fall between the gaps.”

Ms Molloy stresses that Autism NZ wishes to work with Government and others in order to meet the needs of those with Autism and Aspergers Syndrome and highlights employment, education and health needs for people with ASD and their families, as being areas which Autism NZ can help to service.

The Autism New Zealand conference takes place from 9-11 September at Te Papa in Wellington and will be attended by over 520 people representing those with ASD, their families and professionals working in the field.

Among the speakers are world renowned experts including Dr’s Tony Attwood, Gary Mesibov and Temple Grandin, who was recently seen at the Emmy Awards when the movie of her life scooped 7 awards.

Ends