How we can make change to accept people on the Autistic Spectrum

I have heard recently that Australia fairs very badly in terms of Disability at the Geneva Convention on Disability Rights and I am not sure if I can speak for others, but such a reality is seriously concerning to hear. In terms of overall disability support and awareness, people are falling below the lines of a normal quality of life, missing out on essential services and being exposed to isolation, abuse, neglect or ignorance within the community. I think all disability support needs a drastic overhaul and Australia needs to fall in line with the rest of the world or set a benchmark to improve support and services for people affected by Autism and other disabilities. As we confront the upcoming election, and despite my efforts to writing to politicians, the United Nations and contacting the media, all that is needed to be done seems and impossible task. For an Autism Bill to be passed in the Australian Parliament as stated before requires the putting up of a Private Members Bill. Such a bill would ensure and keep the government accountable and within judicial responsibility of ensuring support and assistance available to those who so desperately need it. In terms of reducing unemployment in adults on the Autistic Spectrum, more support needs to go into the formation of employment agencies which specialise in all disabilities and more importantly Autism. Such agencies need to ensure they represent and support the client with Asperger Syndrome and if necessary provide training and support to Managers to ensure they are aware of the needs and requirements of the person concerned when lodging a job application and if at all lucky, attend a job interview. Often the argument arises as to tell or not to tell a potential employer of a person having Asperger Syndrome, but the arguments against don't hold much weight as compared to the arguments for disclosure. The job market is highly demanding and a great deal many applicants apply for employment but unlike other applicants, adults with Asperger Syndrome suffer more from social isolation, low self esteem and a means of purpose. Often their lack of social skills and being able to understand the Neuro Typical World around them creates a feeling of hopelessness if they don't have a job whether it be paid or unpaid. In my upcoming presentations with Dr Tony Attwood and with Dr Kate Sofronoff (Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Queensland) I will be addressing the issues and difficulties adults with Asperger Syndrome confront in finding a job, attending a job interview and maintaining a job. Quite simply someone has to say something to get the awareness out there. For a population of almost 23 million people it is a national disgrace that the awareness of disability, mental illness and Autism falls short or exists in silence. It is an epidemic, especially when we have more children and more adults being diagnosed on the Autistic Spectrum. Why is nothing being done? Can people power make a difference? Am I making a difference? All questions need to be carefully examined and looked into because this is a growing problem and adults and children should not just exist on some kind of waste land or rubbish heap. Everyone has to approach their local parliamentarians or standing candidates and outline to them the difficulties relating to the Autistic Spectrum. Together we can make a difference as for so long, Autism, Disabilities and Mental Health Issues remain un discussed and in darkness. I urge everyone to stand up to the politicians and make them listen!! People power can make a difference and it may take time but we need to start somewhere.