Community Announcements

Wednesday 16th October 2024

Community Update: Autism Camp Australia and NDIS Funding Changes

To our valued Autism Camp Australia community,

With recent discussions around NDIS funding changes, we want to provide clarity and reassurance about the essential nature of what we do here at ACA. While concerns have been raised about some services being more akin to holidays, Autism Camp Australia offers a capacity-building program that is fundamental to the growth and support of Autistic young people and their families. Our camps are not vacations—they are structured, evidence-based programs aligned with NDIS goals to build critical life skills, social connections, and independence.

Why is Autism Camp Australia Funded by NDIS?

Autism Camp Australia is uniquely positioned to support the NDIS objectives of capacity building and life improvement. Here’s why:

  • Experts in the Autism Field: Our team consists of highly qualified professionals with years of experience in Autism support, education, and development.

  • Autistic-Led and Lived Experience: We are proud to have significant neurodivergent representation at every level of our organisation. Our programs are shaped by lived experience, and we engage Autistic voices to constantly evaluate and improve our offerings.

  • Evidence-Based Approach: The effectiveness of our programs is supported by research, with outcomes in areas such as mental health, employability, education, economic participation, and overall well being.

  • Positive Role Models and Support: We promote positive role modelling through our Autistic staff and volunteers, empowering participants to celebrate their identity, build confidence, and gain autonomy.

What Sets Autism Camp Australia Apart?

Our camps are more than a break from routine and day to day life — they are an immersive experience designed to create lasting impacts. Here's how our programs benefit participants and their families:

  • Short-Term Outcomes:

    • Safe and Inclusive Environment: Families experience a supportive space where they can engage with others who truly understand their journey, led by staff with lived experience of Autism.

    • Relief from Social Isolation: Our camps foster deep social connections within the Autistic community, helping families and participants combat the isolation they often experience in everyday life.

    • Building Self-Worth and Identity: Participants are encouraged to embrace their Autistic identity, free from the pressures of neuro-normative expectations. This safe environment allows them to “just be” themselves.

    • Engagement in Therapies and Skills Development: Our activities integrate educational components, peer-to-peer support, and skill-building that align with each participant’s goals under their NDIS plan.

  • Medium-Term Outcomes:

    • Strong Social Connections: Participants often form long-lasting friendships that extend beyond camp, building supportive social networks within the Autistic community.

    • Improved Mental Health: The acceptance and autonomy fostered at camp lead to reduced anxiety, greater self-worth, and overall improvements in mental health and wellbeing.

    • Increased School Participation: With greater confidence, Autistic young people are better equipped to navigate school life and understand the often confusing social dynamics of neurotypical settings.

    • Support for Siblings and Parents: Our programs also focus on siblings, helping them build informal support networks, while parents gain confidence and access new opportunities, from employment to volunteer work.

  • Long-Term Outcomes:

    • Greater Community Engagement: With increased confidence and capacity, participants feel more empowered to engage in broader community activities, leading to stronger social cohesion and community participation.

    • Sustained Wellbeing and Independence: Our carefully curated program drives long-term improvements in both mental and physical health, equipping families with tools for self-care and ongoing support.

    • Enhanced Economic Participation: Over time, participants gain skills, knowledge, and confidence that prepare them for greater engagement in employment and education, reducing long-term dependency on welfare and increasing their quality of life.

Proven Impact: Results Speak for Themselves

Over the last few years, Autism Camp Australia has developed the most comprehensive camp program in Australia for Autistic families. Our evaluation data shows that:

  • 96% of families report improved skills and knowledge

  • 93% see an increase in motivation and confidence

  • 91% report a boost in self-esteem, mental and physical health

  • 86% experience reduced social isolation and stronger social networks

Our programs are tailored to help Autistic people build skills that lead to better long-term outcomes, including improved mental health, increased employability, and greater life expectancy (currently only 53 years based on international studies).

NDIS and Camp Enrollment

Since the changes to NDIS funding, we’ve continued to receive strong enrolments, which confirms the vital role we play in supporting families. While some services might be questioned for being purely leisure, Autism Camp Australia stands as a capacity-building and essential family support program. If you require additional support or are seeking further funding for an NDIS review, we are happy to offer guidance and provide any necessary supporting documents.

Autism Camp Australia remains committed to delivering transformative programs that enrich the lives of Autistic people and their families. Thank you for your ongoing trust and support. Together, we’re building a brighter future for the entire Autism community.