Western Metropolitan Region
Moira DEEMING (Western Metropolitan) (14:50): (654) My question is for the minister representing the Minister for Health. Laudably, the state government has invested money into an autism state plan which highlights the need to make sure autistic people do not miss out on health and mental health supports. This has included disability liaison officers in hospitals on weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm. However, on 1 October 2023 my constituent, a 23-year-old male with autism, intellectual disabilities, anxiety and depression, was transported to Sunshine Hospital in regard to his mental health on a weekend. He was discharged with no plan, no supports and no guidance – no support to link him into or lay out a pathway for his mental health recovery. The only help he received was via his mother Despina, who was given flyers for carers groups. This vulnerable family need the help of a disability liaison officer, because autism does not stop on the weekends. So my question is: will the minister please ensure that disability liaison officers are available 24/7 rather than only on weekdays 8 to 5?