Ontario Takes Decisive Action to Help More Families with Autism

We will provide direct financial supports for families and clear the waitlist of 23,000 children previously denied funding in Ontario Autism Program

February 6th, 2019

Oakville North-Burlington – Today, Ontario’s Government for the People announced  widespread reform of the Ontario Autism Program bringing relief to 23,000 children and their families who are currently languishing on an unfair and punishing waitlist for autism services. This will restore fairness, equality and sustainability to the program so that more families of children and youth with autism can receive service.

“The Ontario government invests $321 million dollars each year in autism supports that under the current system leave 3 out of 4 children behind,” said Macleod. “I cannot in good conscience continue this Liberal plan that was more about politics than the people it should be supporting.”

Under the government’s proposed reforms, the waitlist for funding will be cleared in 18 months, people will be treated with fairness and equality, the system will become more financially sustainable, make the system more accountable and to guarantee that supports are there for families with the greatest need, now and well into the future.

With the proposed changes, families may receive a Childhood Budget until their child turns 18. Supports will be targeted to lower and middle-income families. The amount of the budget will depend on the length of time a child will be in the program. For example, a child entering the program at age two would be eligible to receive up to $140,000, until the child turns 18; while a child entering the program at age seven would receive up to $55,000. These changes will ensure that every child will receive assistance, rather than just 25% of families who currently receive support.

Quotes from Effie Triantafilopoulos, MPP Oakville North-Burlington

“Autism hits close to home for every community across our province and ours is no exception. Three out of every four children who require support are stranded on years’ long wait lists. Families have told me that the current system is broken” said Oakville North-Burlington MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos. “Our government’s plan ensures that no families will have to wait over two years to receive support for their children. Parents will also have choice to purchase the eligible services they value most and have more flexibility on how funds are allocated which will translate into a greater impact in their child’s early years”.

QUICK FACTS

  • To be eligible for the Ontario Autism Program, a child must have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder from a qualified professional. Families are eligible to apply for program funding for children and youth up to age 18.
  • Today, there are over 2,400 families waiting for a diagnostic assessment, and more than 23,000 families waiting for behavioural services through the Ontario Autism Program with demand continuing to grow.
  • Evidence shows that children who receive behavioural intervention therapies between two and five years of age have the best long-term outcomes.

RESOURCES

Helping Families by Improving Access to Autism Services