A school that placed a child with special needs and behavioural issues in a cage-like withdrawal space told parents it had intended it to be a "sanctuary". 

ACT Education has suspended a principal and launched an investigation into how a primary school student was placed in the purpose built two-by-two-metres structure made of metal pool fencing.

It is understood the structure within the classroom was built specifically for the student, believed to be a 10-year-old boy with autism, on March 10. It was dismantled on March 27, the day after the directorate became aware of it.

In this video Bob Buckley describes his recent experiences with National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) planning. His advice tries to help others prepare for their transition to the NDIS. He suggests that people can reduce their stress over NDIS planning if they better understand the processes and likely outcomes.

Bob Buckley's son (who is 23yo with severe autism) has one of the earlier NDIS plans approved in the ACT. The process took 11 days and delivered substantially more support/resources than was previously provided. The plan is much more flexible than the previous arrangement.

In May 2013, Ms Burch MLA, ACT Minister for Disability, tabled a report entitled "Report on support provided for autism diagnosis and services and the potential for further reforms resulting from the National Disability Insurance Scheme and the National Plan for School Improvement". Normally reports like this are made publicly available. Since SOfASD could not find a copy of the report on any ACT Government website, we requested a copy of the report from the Minister. After 11 months and several further requests, the Minister gave us an electronic copy of the report.

Dear Ms Burch MLA

Following the recent NDIS cover in the media, there are several issues I would like to talk about with you as the Minister responsible for the coming NDIS in the ACT. I am generally supportive of the coming NDIS but I have serious concerns about the roll out. In particular, I am concerned that the transition to the NDIS may not be well planned and that several crucial services that affect people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have or will fall through the cracks.

from http://www.hansard.act.gov.au/hansard/2013/week11/3283.htm 17/9/2013

Autism—early intervention programs

Discussion of matter of public importance

MR ASSISTANT SPEAKER (Mr Doszpot): Madam Speaker has received letters from Ms Berry, Dr Bourke, myself, Mr Gentleman, Mr Hanson, Ms Lawder, Ms Porter, Mr Smyth and Mr Wall proposing that matters of public importance be submitted to the Assembly. In accordance with standing order 79, Madam Speaker has determined that the matter proposed by Ms Lawder be submitted to the Assembly, namely:

The importance of providing intensive early intervention programs for children with autism in the ACT.