🌿 Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and How the NDIS Can Help

Published on October 8, 2025 | Updated on October 9, 2025

FASD is often referred to as an “invisible disability” because individuals may not have obvious physical differences but can still experience significant challenges in learning, memory, behaviour, and emotional regulation.

What Is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)?

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong condition that occurs when a baby is exposed to alcohol before birth. Alcohol can interfere with the baby’s brain development, leading to a range of physical, cognitive, and behavioural challenges.

Common Signs and Characteristics of FASD

Every person with FASD is unique, but common signs may include:

Difficulty with attention, focus, and impulse control

Challenges with memory and learning

Speech and language delays

Poor emotional regulation or social skills

Difficulty understanding consequences

Sensory sensitivities

Developmental delays and coordination issues

These challenges can affect many areas of life, from education and employment to relationships and daily routines.

How the NDIS Supports Participants with FASD

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) recognises FASD as a permanent developmental disability that may require lifelong support.

Through the NDIS, participants with FASD may access funding for:

✅ Therapeutic supports – such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and psychology to improve communication, behaviour, and daily functioning.

✅ Daily personal activities – assistance with self-care, hygiene, and household tasks.

✅ Social and community participation – helping participants build confidence, develop friendships, and engage with the community.

✅ Skill development programs – to support independence, emotional regulation, and executive functioning.

✅ Respite and 24/7 care – for families and carers who need support managing complex care needs.

How Openhearted Support Can Help

At Openhearted Support, we understand the unique challenges faced by individuals living with FASD and their families. Our goal is to provide compassionate, structured, and consistent support that empowers participants to live meaningful, independent lives.

Here’s how we can assist:

Therapeutic & Allied Health Services

Our Occupational Therapists and allied health professionals design personalised plans to help participants improve sensory processing, coordination, emotional regulation, and functional independence.

Support Coordination

Our experienced Support Coordinators work closely with families, Local Area Coordinators (LACs), and clinicians to ensure participants receive the right supports and funding under their NDIS plan.

Daily Personal and Household Supports

We provide in-home care to assist with personal hygiene, meals, cleaning, and routine management — ensuring participants feel comfortable and supported in their environment.

Skill & Life Development Programs

Our team focuses on building communication, problem-solving, and daily living skills through structured learning and positive behaviour strategies.

Community Participation

We support participants in engaging with social and recreational activities, boosting confidence and helping them build meaningful connections.

💞 Supporting Families and Carers

Caring for someone with FASD can be emotionally and physically demanding. That’s why Openhearted Support also provides resources and respite options for families and carers.

We believe that when carers are supported, participants thrive. Our approach ensures that both the participant and their support network receive the care they deserve.

🌟 Why Choose Openhearted Support

NDIS Registered Provider across Melbourne and surrounding regions

Multidisciplinary team including Occupational Therapists, Support Coordinators.

Specialised experience with neurodevelopmental disabilities like FASD, Autism, ADHD, and Intellectual Disability

Compassionate, person-centred care tailored to each participant’s goals

Flexible support — at home, in the community, or in supported accommodation

📞 Let’s Build a Brighter Future Together

If you or someone you support is living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and looking for the right NDIS assistance, Openhearted Support is here to help every step of the way.

📞 Call us: 1800 976 186

📧 Email: admin@ohsupport.com.au

🌐 Visit: www.openheartedsupport.com.au

✨ Final Thought

FASD may be complex, but with the right understanding, structured therapy, and consistent care, individuals can thrive and achieve independence.

At Openhearted Support, we provide not just care — but a pathway to confidence, growth, and a better quality of life. 💜