Committee activities (inquiries and reports)

Inquiry into Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Terms of Reference

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is an overarching term used to describe a range of cognitive, physical, mental, behavioural, learning and developmental disorders that result from foetal exposure to alcohol.

The Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs is to inquire into and report on developing a national approach to the prevention, intervention and management of FASD in Australia, with particular reference to:

• Prevention strategies – including education campaigns and consideration of options such as product warnings and other mechanisms to raise awareness of the harmful nature of alcohol consumption during pregnancy,
  
  
• Intervention needs – including FASD diagnostic tools for health and other professionals, and the early intervention therapies aimed at minimising the impact of FASD on affected individuals, and
  
  
• Management issues – including access to appropriate community care and support services across education, health, community services, employment and criminal justice sectors for the communities, families and individuals impacted by FASD.
  

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