Abstract: As the landscape of early intervention in Australia continues to evolve, providers of ABA-based services must navigate significant changes in funding, policy, and practice. This panel brings together leading experts to discuss key issues shaping the future of ABA-based early intervention. Panellists will explore current challenges in service delivery, including workforce capacity, service accessibility, and the integration of ABA within multidisciplinary approaches. The discussion will also examine recent and proposed changes to funding models and their implications for providers and families. With foundational supports emerging as a major focus in the NDIS, the panel will consider how these changes may impact the availability and structure of ABA-based services. Finally, panellists will discuss the importance of advocacy in securing greater recognition of the evidence base and cost-effectiveness of ABA for specific cohorts of children. Attendees will gain insights into strategies for adapting to change, engaging with policymakers, and ensuring that high-quality, individualised support remains accessible to those who need it most.

Learning Objectives:

1. At the conclusion of this panel, participants will be able to describe key opportunities and challenges in the delivery of ABA-based early intervention services in Australia, including workforce capacity, service accessibility, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
2. At the conclusion of this panel, participants will be able to analyse the implications of recent and proposed changes to NDIS funding models on the structure and availability of ABA-based services.
3. At the conclusion of this panel, participants will be able to identify effective strategies for advocacy and engagement with policymakers to promote the recognition, accessibility, and sustainability of high-quality, individualised ABA-based early intervention.

Panellists:  Niesha Illingworth¹, Karen McKinnon², Kristin Bayley³, Jill Hellemans⁴, & Bob Buckley⁵

Moderator: Erin Leif⁶

¹Bright Eyes, ²Autism Partnership, ³Launch Supervision, ⁴Learn My Way, ⁵Autism Aspergers Advocacy Australia (A4), ⁶Monash University