Autism Strategy

The Hon. H.M. GIROLAMO (14:50): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the parliamentary secretary and Assistant Minister for Autism questions on the Autism Strategy.

Leave granted.

The Hon. H.M. GIROLAMO: The Autism Strategy released in draft for consultation on 4 March outlined a range of different areas of focus. My questions today relate to focus area 2, being positive education experiences. The strategy indicates, and I quote:

We want the South Australian public education system to champion Autistic Children and students to thrive in the educational environment, to receive the right supports for them, and feel empowered to succeed.

My questions to the parliamentary secretary are:

1. How many children living with autism are currently not attending school on a regular basis?

2. Has there, or will there be, added focus on flexible learning, including offering alternative school structures and reduced hours?

3. What is the department undertaking to re-engage these children who may have experienced trauma associated with the school environment?

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE (14:51): I appreciate that the honourable member has seen that the draft strategy is out, and I hope she is participating in it. As those questions are relevant to the education minister, I will refer them to the education minister, but I strongly encourage the member to participate in the draft strategy.