Autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition.

Every individual on the spectrum has unique needs, making the personalisation of therapy essential. Neurofeedback, a therapy designed to regulate brain activity, is particularly valuable for some individuals based on their specific neurological patterns. Neurofeedback was immediately removed from NDIS funding on October 3, 2024.

By removing NDIS funding for neurofeedback, we have lost an important tool in the autism care toolkit.

For those whose needs align with neurofeedback's benefits, this therapy can be transformative. Yet, with funding gone, access becomes limited to those who can afford it privately. Again, those that need help the most pay the biggest penalty.

Autism's spectrum requires a spectrum of solutions.

Stripping away neurofeedback not only narrows treatment options, but it also ignores the diversity of needs within the autism community. Funding decisions should reflect the diversity of individuals, not force them into one-size-fits-all solutions. A lack of transparency only adds to the confusion and complicates meaningful engagement to remedy what is clearly a mistake.

Every person deserves access to the therapy that best supports their development.

Neurofeedback offers hope for many, particularly those for whom conventional therapies have failed. Let’s ensure that neurofeedback remains an accessible option for those it can help, rather than being dictated by a funding limitation. Every person deserves the chance to find what works best for their unique situation.

It is important that the NDIS provides detail on the reasons for excluding neurofeedback from funding and reconsiders this decision as a matter of urgency. Mistakes can be easily corrected if swift action is taken. The current state where NDIS participants, previously seeing positive results through neurofeedback (often for the first time) are now being pushed towards bottlenecked treatments must be remedied.

Sadly, standardising therapy options overlooks the very nature of autism itself.