ADVOCACY & FUNDRAISING

SUPPORT the Regional Autistic Engagement Network

We are reaching out to you during a crucial time for the Autistic community in Tasmania. Following the closure of Autism Tasmania, a significant gap has emerged in the support and advocacy available for Autistic individuals and their families in our region. As Autistic individuals and parents, we are deeply concerned about the impact of this loss on our community, especially with the imminent changes in disability support frameworks across Australia.To address this urgent need, the Regional Autistic Engagement Network (RAEN) is stepping up to provide the necessary peer support and advocacy for Autistic people, their families and carers in Tasmania.

However, to do so effectively, RAEN needs your help. RAEN aims to fill the void left by the closure of Autism Tasmania by providing accurate information, peer support, and advocacy. We are committed to ensuring that Autistic Tasmanians are not left behind, especially during this period of significant change within the disability sector. Your donation, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in building a supportive and informed community for Autistic individuals in Tasmania. Together, we can ensure that the needs and rights of Autistic people are met and advocated for, both now and in the future.

The Urgent Need for a Tasmanian Autism Strategy - RAEN Calls on the Tasmanian Premier for Action

With the recent release of the National Autism Strategy, and in light of the closure of Autism Tasmania, we are deeply concerned by the lack of a funded peak body and the absence of a Tasmanian Autism Strategy at such a critical time for the Autistic and Autism community.

We write to you as Autistic people and Board members of the Regional Autistic Engagement Network (RAEN) to urge you to consider committing to an Autism or Neurodiversity Strategy for Tasmania.

READ FULL LETTER

Supported By:

Submission to the Department of Social Services Consultation on the NDIS Support Rules

Regional Autistic Engagement Network (2025). ‘Submission to the Department of Social Services Consultation on the NDIS Support Rule.’ July 2025. Written by Heidi La Paglia for and on behalf of RAEN, Tasmania.

GO TO SUBMISSION

Ahead of the Tasmanian state election, we asked all major parties and candidates to respond to four key priorities for Autistic Tasmanians

1. Developing a Tasmanian Autism Strategy or Tasmanian Neurodivergent Strategy

2. Funding an independent, Autistic-led peak body for Tasmania.

3. The implementation of the National Autism Strategy in Tasmania.

4. Implementation of the National Health Roadmap

5. Co-design with Autistic people for Foundational Supports

Authorised by H. Reeve, Regional Autistic Engagement Network, Burnie, 7320

SEE SCORECARD RESPONSES

Every Australian Counts 2025

RAEN is one of 254 disability organisations and providers, including Australia’s peak disability representative bodies, who are calling for urgent action from the Government and the new Minister for the NDIS, Amanda Rishworth MP , to protect the safety and wellbeing of National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participants amid rushed reforms.

We are calling for the Government to honour its commitment to genuinely co-design reforms with the disability community and for a more careful, well-paced process which will lead to better, fairer and more effective reforms. With eligibility reassessments underway and support needs assessments scheduled to commence on 1 September 2025, we propose a phased approach that allows time for proper co-design, pilot testing, and refinement before widespread implementation.

See the full media release from Every Australian Counts below.

FULL MEDIA RELEASE

Submission to the Parliamentary inquiry into ADHD services in Tasmania 2024

Regional Autistic Engagement Network (2024). ‘Submission to the Parliamentary inquiry into ADHD services in Tasmania.’ August 2024. Written by Heidi La Paglia and Hannah Reeve for and on behalf of RAEN: Tasmania.

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Concerns regarding the Proposed NDIS Support List and its Impact on Autistic Tasmanians

RAEN's submission to the NDIS about our concerns regarding the proposed NDIS supports list and its impact on Autistic Tasmanians.

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Open letter regarding the impact of Autism Tasmania entering voluntary administration

RAEN's open letter on behalf of our community members to share the reactions and impact of the aftermath of Autism Tasmania entering voluntary administration.

OPEN LETTER