The Hon Linda Burney MP will launch the world’s first report into autism in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities at the State Library of NSW on Tuesday 18th February. The report, conducted by internationally-recognised researchers at Macquarie University, reveals that although autism is just likely to be as common in Aboriginal as non-Aboriginal communities, there remain fewer autism services and supports available to families in First Nations communities, especially services and supports which recognise the distinctive culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The report, “We Look After Our Own Mob” was funded by Positive Partnerships, a national project funded by the Commonwealth government, and written by Macquarie University academics, Dr Rozanna Lilley, Mikala Sedgwick and Prof. Liz Pellicano.
The researchers interviewed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families living in areas from inner-city suburbs to remote and regional communities across Australia.
It was the first time that any major study has been completed which focused on autism and autism services among Australia’s First Peoples.
The report reveals that many families have particular concern about the availability of diagnostic services in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, the restricted nature of post-diagnostic support and the absence of education about autism and its effects.
It also notes the remarkable resilience of many of the families interviewed in situations where informal family and community ties are often the only major resource available to support those in need.
Macquarie University Professor Liz Pellicano highlights the current injustice facing autistic people among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.
“All autistic people deserve the same sorts of chances in life: to be able to enjoy trusting, nurturing relationships with family and close friends, to feel safe, secure and valued at school, at workplaces and in communities, and to develop their skills and talents to the maximum possible extent.
This research shows that this just isn’t happening for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families now and we have to put that right.”
Researcher and mother of an autistic child, Mikala Sedgwick, emphasises the importance of the research.
“This research is really important because often Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aren’t given an opportunity to talk about autism or they aren’t given a voice to say what might work for them or what are the barriers for them.”