NACCHO Media Release: FASD Awareness at Parliament House shines light on education and support across systems

Today, the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Observance at Parliament House brought together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, health experts, and policymakers to focus on the importance of FASD education and its role in supporting people across health, community, and justice settings.

The gathering brought together NACCHO, FARE, NOFASD, and FASD Hub to highlight the importance of FASD education, featuring an address from the Minister for Health and Aged Care, the Hon Mark Butler, and a panel discussion with NACCHO Board Chair Donnella Mills. Ms Mills spoke on the need for both prevention and ongoing support, saying change starts with recognising the role of community leadership.

“When we give our young people the right support from the start, we are investing in their futures and in stronger, safer communities. This is more than awareness, it’s about action that ensures no family is left without the help they need, no matter where they live.”

Adding to these remarks, NACCHO CEO Pat Turner AM said that governments must back the approaches communities have proven to work.

“Our communities have led the way in responding to FASD for decades. We know what works: culturally informed care, early diagnosis, and wrap-around support for families. The justice system must see FASD as a health issue, not a criminal one, and work alongside us to ensure our people get the care they need.”

FASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disability caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. With the right awareness, early diagnosis, and culturally informed support, people with FASD can be better understood, valued, and supported to reach their full potential. Strengthening education across all sectors helps ensure every person and family has access to the care and opportunities they deserve.

Through its Strong Born campaign, NACCHO works with ACCHOs across Australia to deliver strengths-based health information, culturally safe conversations, and locally led prevention strategies, breaking down the shame, blame, and stigma that can prevent families from seeking help.

NACCHO’s calls to action include:

• Consistent investment in FASD education and awareness.
• Early, culturally informed screening and support.
• Rolling out health-justice partnerships.

For more information, please click here: https://www.naccho.org.au/fasd/