CPA Early Response Therapy Program

Bridging the gap for babies at risk of cerebral palsy

CPA fully funded early supports program

Babies at risk of cerebral palsy (CP) deserve timely access to the best evidence-based care and support available. Without a confirmed diagnosis, it may take up to 6 months for a baby to get the funding they need to access crucial early intervention.

CPA Early Response Therapy Program bridges the gap by providing much needed early intervention, as well as assessments and recommendations, assisting families to access a suitable NDIS plan for ongoing support.

85 babies

supported in 3 Early Diagnosis clinics

233 babies

accessed 3,740 hours of free early intervention therapy

What does the program provide?

Each baby and their family will:

Receive supports and specialised therapies from a highly skilled early intervention team made up of occupational therapists, speech pathologists and physiotherapists.
Work with their early intervention team to identify and work towards individualised goals.
Obtain specific assessments and recommendations that can be used to inform NDIS planning and appropriate levels of funding.

Who is eligible?

Infants aged 0 to 2 years will be considered for eligibility if they meet one of the following criteria:

Confirmed diagnosis of Cerebral palsy, or
Confirmed diagnosis of At High Risk of Cerebral palsy, or
Presenting with risk factors for Cerebral palsy, including:
- - Results of the following motor assessments: General Movements Assessment (GMA), Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE) or Other standardized motor assessments in combination with
  - Clinical history including (but not limited to) prematurity (<37 weeks gestation), Genetic conditions, Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), Neonatal encephalopathy or hypoxia, Neonatal seizures & Neonatal stroke and where available:
  - Results from Neuroimaging findings suggestive of motor impairment,

Note:
Infants who do not meet the above criteria but are suspected of having a neurological or movement disorder may still be referred to Cerebral Palsy Alliance. Where the child does not have an NDIS funding package or be determined to be eligible for CPA Early Response Therapy funding, alternative funding options can be discussed with the caregiver.

How is the program funded?

The Cerebral Palsy Alliance Early Response Therapy Program is generously supported by:

The Profield Foundation, Tradies, Law Partners, Wyong Rugby League Club, Central Coast Leagues Club, James Frizelle Charitable Foundation, Orange ex- Services Club, Dubbo RSL Memorial Club, Lantern Club, St George’s Basin Country Club, Harold Mitchell Foundation.

How to access the program

To refer a baby at risk of CP, or if you are the parent or guardian of a child at risk of CP please call our team on 1300 888 378 or email ask@cerebralpalsy.org.au

Early Diagnosis Clinic – Cerebral Palsy

The Early Diagnosis Clinic is a bulk-billed diagnostic clinic for babies at high risk of cerebral palsy. The clinic aims to fast track diagnosis and enable quicker access to early interventions, family support and better outcomes for the future.

Find out more

Enquiry form

We will respond as soon as possible, between Monday-Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm