Cutting funding for effective treatments sends a chilling message to therapy innovators.

The 3 October 2024 decision to remove neurofeedback funding discourages investment in new autism support technologies and approaches. When proven treatments lose funding without clear justification, developers and researchers question the viability of investing in innovative solutions.

The impact on treatment development extends far beyond neurofeedback.

Research initiatives slow, development programs pause, and potential breakthroughs remain unexplored as the funding environment becomes more uncertain. The message is clear: innovation in autism support carries significant financial risk, regardless of effectiveness.

We risk falling behind global advances in autism support.

As other countries embrace and fund innovative treatments, Australia risks creating an innovation gap that could take years to bridge. The loss of research momentum and development expertise threatens our position in advancing autism support technologies.

We must create an environment that encourages rather than penalises innovation.

Reinstating neurofeedback funding demonstrates our commitment to supporting effective treatment innovations. The future of autism care depends on maintaining pathways for developing and implementing new therapeutic approaches.