Speaking up for autism services

Families struggling with autism will have a chance to be heard during a public hearing in Geelong this month, state MP Christine Couzens has announced.
A hearing of a parliamentary inquiry into services for autistic people would visit the city on 19 September, said the Geelong MP.
“This is an important inquiry that will investigate the availability and adequacy of services provided by the Commonwealth, state and local governments across health, education, disability, housing, sport and employment services.
“This allows people in the Geelong region to have their say.”
City Hall would host the public hearing from 1pm, Ms Couzens said.
City Hall and parents of autistic people would present “evidence” while autism sufferers, researchers and peak-body representatives would offer “views”.
Others could “have a say and tell their story” after formalities concluded at 4pm, Ms Couzens said.
The hearing committee, which includes Ms Couzens, will also conduct sessions in Melbourne and other regional centres across Victoria.
Ms Couzens said anyone wanting to participate in thee Geelong hearings could register by phoning 8682 2843 or emailing fcdc@parliament.vic.gov.au.
A hearing schedule and more information was available at parliament.vic.gov.au/fcdc, she said.
Geelong has one of Australia’s highest rates of autism with estimates of up to one in 25 residents suffering the condition in some parts of the city.