NOFASARD (The National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Related Disorders)
NOFASARD is the peak national non-government organisation representing the interests of parents, carers and others interested in or affected by FASD.
Through education, training and advocacy, NOFASARD aims to prevent FASD and improve the lives of children/adults living with FASD and the families who support them. NOFASARD delivers support to families living with FASD and education and training workshops for both government and non-government agencies throughout Australia.
NOFASARD’s Patron is Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia.
What are Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)?
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an inclusive and generic term used to describe a continuum of adverse fetal outcomes caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol. It is widely recognized as the most common preventable cause of birth defects and brain damage in children. It is claimed that prevalence rates are largely unknown and probably under ascertained.
FASD is not a clinical diagnosis in itself but represents a range of diagnoses that fall within the spectrum - Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Neurodevelopmental Disorders.
Children affected by alcohol exposure before birth may be found amongst those diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, Austism Spectrum Disorder or Asperger Disorder.
FASD lasts for life and has enormous social and economic costs for the individual family and society. Individuals with FASD do their best when diagnosed and provided with longer term planning with consideration for appropriate treatment and support. Effective support includes making accommodations with realistic expectations and consistency and may involve special education and vocational programs; support for parents/carers to provide lifelong care; and sometimes 24/7 supervision.