Autism Ontario 2026 Pre-Budget Consultation Submission

Autism Ontario

On January 30, 2026, Autism Ontario submitted its recommendations for the 2026-2027 Ontario Budget. We urged the province to address the systemic barriers preventing the creation of a supportive and inclusive Ontario for autism. Autism Ontario’s letter of recommendations for the 2026-2027 Ontario budget may be downloaded as a PDF. In summary, these recommendations include:   

  • Increase funding for autism services: Expand investment in the Ontario Autism Program to reduce waitlists, improve access to early diagnosis, and expand clinical services and programs for children and families. 

  • Strengthen the education system: Ensure autistic students receive adequate special education services by increasing accountability, consultation with stakeholders, and clear implementation of new education policies. 

  • Improve mental health supports: Expand training and resources for mental health professionals who support autistic children and youth, and strengthen collaboration across health, education, and social service sectors. 

  • Address adult housing and care gaps: Increase the supply of affordable, supportive housing and improve coordinated planning across ministries to better support autistic adults with complex needs. 

  • Enhance transition and adult supports: Expand programs that help autistic youth with a smooth transition to adulthood, including employment supports, access to post-secondary education, promote independent living skills, and support access to services like Passport Funding. 

  • Improve financial security and national collaboration: Increase Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) payments, improve access to Registered Disability Savings Plans (RDSPs), and support national collaboration through a National Autism Strategy. 

Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy announced that the Ontario government will table its 2026 budget on March 26, 2026. We will review the final provincial budget to assess how our recommendations are reflected. 

Autism Ontario continues to advocate for a province that recognizes the need for seamless and equitable supports across the life course, reflecting the diverse nature of Ontarians with autism, their unique lived experiences, and the needs of their caregivers and families who love and support them as they grow from infancy to and throughout adulthood.