In response to news that in Queensland, drivers are required to obtain a medical clearance form from a doctor confirming they are fit to drive despite being autistic, AAPi has written to the Queensland Transport Minister asking for this rule to be reconsidered.
The issue is covered in an online story across numerous news.com.au sites today, including excerpts from the letter.
"In 2022, the Assessing Fitness to Drive standards were covertly changed to include autism as a condition that “should be assessed individually” for the first time," the story said.
"Failure to do so can result in a $9,288 fine and cancellation of licence."
Executive Director Tegan Carrison said: “We have received reports from members that appointments at clinics in Queensland have been cancelled this week, following the news of the assessment standards for drivers with autism.
“This is highly concerning because it means people are choosing not to access the supports that exist to increase their capacity and safety.
“Psychologists, as a routine part of their job, assess for risk. If any risks were evident, we would be discussing this with the client and their referring GP to ensure everyone was safe on the road.”
In the letter to the Queensland Government, Chief Services Officer Amanda Curran wrote:
“AAPi is concerned that this ruling is discriminatory and may have severe consequences, including stopping people from seeking help or diagnosis.
“We want to encourage people to access professional help whenever they need it.”
AAPi has urged Queensland to bring its interpretation in line with those of other jurisdictions, which mostly require autistic Australians to report their condition only if it impacts their driving.
Read the full story here.