Diagnoses for autism and ADHD are rising in Australia.
For many of these students, targeted support is crucial for them to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally.
Currently, support includes adjusting classroom activities and creating unique goals specific to their learning so they can work more effectively.
To achieve this, schools apply for additional government funding and create individual education plans.
Sadly, despite the best efforts of schools and teachers, many of them are simply struggling to keep up with the breadth and depth of individual needs, resulting in students falling behind.
In some cases, long-term, unmet student needs can lead to extreme situations for all those involved in the classroom.
Over a period of five years, the number of instances where educators are resorting to physically restrictive measures almost doubled.
There were 1522 incidents of restraint and seclusion in 2019, increasing to 2900 last year.
SBS recently reported on several unacceptable examples of students with disabilities being left
outside in caged areas, while others were physically hurt by fellow classmates.
It beggars belief that this could happen in a developed country like ours, but sadly it does.
I believe a multi-faceted approach is needed to resolve these issues.
For parents who would like to explore the medical route, the Federal Government should ensure that getting a diagnosis is as efficient and affordable as possible.
Further, the shortage of ADHD medication could possibly be mitigated by improving supply chain resilience, adjusting prescriber rules, and expediting the approval of alternatives to major brands.
Within the classroom, distracting mobile phones should be banned, and a program promoting routine and providing clear and consistent expectations should be implemented statewide.
While these are not silver bullets, they would certainly go a long way in making a difference for all students, including those with neurodiverse needs.
Every child deserves to feel supported and safe, and that’s exactly what I’m fighting for as your local member.
Ann-Marie Hermans
South-Eastern Metropolitan Region MP
Shadow Assistant Minister for Education
