Cameron Caldwell (Fadden, Liberal National Party) Share this | Hansard source

In June, the AEIOU centre in Arundel closed its doors—a specialist service for children with autism, gone overnight. Twelve families including children as young as two were given two weeks notice—two weeks to find new care, new therapy and new hope. Many have been forced back into mainstream settings that they know simply won't work for their kids.

This was more than just a centre; it was a lifeline. Non-verbal children were learning to speak. Others were becoming toilet trained for the first time. They were thriving because they were finally understood. On 19 June I wrote to Minister Butler and Senator McAllister, urging them to step in, but, unfortunately, to date I have received no reply.

Labor's changes to the NDIS are causing real anxiety for real families. We all agree that the scheme must be sustainable, but the way the government is handling reform is leaving families behind and anxious about the future. The parents at the AEIOU centre were not asking for luxury. They were asking for time, for answers and for the basic dignity of knowing their children wouldn't be forgotten.

The coalition will always support sensible, clinically guided reform. But no child who needs support should be left behind and left wanting.

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