NAQ calls for coordinated national action on epilepsy care

Submission to Senate Inquiry highlights gaps in neurological care and urges reforms to improve support, access and outcomes for Australians living with epilepsy.

Neurological Alliance Queensland (NAQ) has made a submission to the Senate Community Affairs References Committee Inquiry into Epilepsy in Australia. This submission highlights the urgent need for better coordinated neurological care across health, disability, education and community systems.

It outlines how epilepsy exposes broader challenges in Australia’s neurological care system. These challenges include fragmented support, delayed diagnosis, workforce shortages, regional inequity and the ongoing pressure on families and carers.

“Epilepsy is not solely a clinical issue. Outcomes are profoundly shaped by system design, coordination and access to support.”

Strengthening diagnosis-to-support pathways

NAQ is calling for nationally consistent diagnosis-to-support pathways. These pathways would include epilepsy education, seizure safety planning, navigation support and psychosocial support. They would also include warm referrals to community epilepsy organisations.

In addition, the submission highlights the need for a national neurological workforce and capability strategy. This is particularly important for addressing specialist shortages and improving access to care in regional, rural and remote communities.

Key reform priorities

The submission makes 12 recommendations. These include funded National Action Plan(s) aligned with the World Health Organisation’s Intersectoral Global Action Plan on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders.

It also calls for stronger investment in community neurological organisations, improved support for carers and families, and increased investment in research, implementation and translation.

“Without coordinated reform, people and families will continue to experience avoidable harm, fragmented support and widening inequity, particularly in regional and remote communities.”

NAQ says the inquiry presents an important opportunity to strengthen neurological care and support pathways across Australia.

Improving safety, equity and long-term support

Through this submission, NAQ is calling for reform that improves safety, participation, equity and long-term system sustainability for Australians living with epilepsy and other neurological conditions.

Ultimately, NAQ believes nationally coordinated action is needed to reduce avoidable harm and improve access to specialist care. As a result, people living with epilepsy would be better able to access the support and services they need to thrive in their communities.

To learn more about NAQ’s position and recommendations, read the full submission below.