Autism: National autism strategy
Bill S-203, the Federal Framework on Autism Spectrum Disorder Act received Royal Assent on March 30, 2023. This legislation outlines a commitment for the development of a federal framework designed to support Autistic Canadians, their families and caregivers.
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National autism strategy updates
The Government of Canada is committed to improving the health and well-being of people on the autism spectrum and to supporting caregivers. We're also committed to creating a national strategy for autism (also known as autism spectrum disorder or ASD) by working with:
- Autistic people
- families
- provinces
- territories
- stakeholders
We invested $1.67 million in a broad and inclusive assessment process to:
- inform the development of the strategy
- make sure it's responsive to the needs of the autism community
The Canadian Academy of Health Sciences led this process. They're a neutral and independent not-for-profit organization that:
- conducts research and engagement
- develops evidenced-based conclusions on a range of complex health and health-related issues
The academy developed a final report on autism that considers evidence-based information and a wide range of views from:
- Autistic people
- their families
- other relevant stakeholders
Learn more about:
National autism conference
We hosted a national conference on November 15 and 16, 2022 to bring together the views of:
- Autistic people
- advocates
- Indigenous partners
- families and caregivers
- provinces and territories
We'll use what we learned from the conference to solidify our priorities and help develop a national autism strategy.
Learn more about:
- Canadian Academy of Health Sciences
- Canadian Academy of Health Sciences: Assessment on Autism Engagement Process
- News release: Government of Canada announces partnership with the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences to lead consultations for the National Autism Strategy
Existing federal initiatives
These Government of Canada initiatives also benefit Autistic people in Canada.
Autism and Intellectual Disabilities Knowledge Exchange Network (AIDE Canada)
AIDE Canada gives people on the autism spectrum, their families and caregivers access to:
- online resources
- local programming
- employment opportunities
- an inventory of services and supports
There are 6 AIDE Canada locations across the country where you can access resources and supports in person.
Learn more about:
Autism Spectrum Disorder Strategic Fund
This fund is providing $9.1 million over 5 years for community-based projects that support people in the autism community by:
- addressing needs across a person's life
- integrating health, social and educational components
- pursuing innovative and community-based program models
- focusing on times of transition from youth to adult and from adult to senior
Learn more about:
Employment and Social Development Canada
Employment and Social Development Canada's initiatives include the:
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