How Epilepsy affects families

Epilepsy Queensland Calls on Community to Respond to Epilepsy Inquiry

Australia's first ever national inquiry regarding epilepsy is set to take place on 30 October in Canberra.

This historic step was instigated by the Parliamentary Friends of Epilepsy convenors Jill Hall MP, Senator Clare Moore, Mark Coulton MP and Senator Gary Humphries.

The inquiry into the impact of epilepsy in Australia will assist federal parliamentarians to fully understand how epilepsy affects the lives of people with epilepsy and their families.

Chief Executive Officer of Epilepsy Queensland Helen Whitehead has applauded this action that will help government to develop strategies and policies to assist people whose lives are touched by epilepsy.

"At last the world's most common serious disorder of the brain has been recognised", Ms Whitehead said.

"One in fifty Australians will experience epilepsy in their lifetime and until now, despite the profound social, psychological and physical impact that epilepsy can have on their lives, it has not been on the radar of our national policy makers".

The Joint Epilepsy Council of Australia (JECA), representing Epilepsy Queensland and other the state epilepsy association service-providers, has lobbied for the Inquiry through the Parliamentary Friends of Epilepsy.

Submissions should be submitted by 2 October and address the following terms of reference:

a) what is known about the incidence, prevalence, mortality and morbidity of Epilepsy in Australia;

b) gaps in our understanding regarding the incidence, prevalence, mortality and morbidity of Epilepsy in Australia;

c) the barriers to social and economic participation for People Living with Epilepsy, including education, employment, and transport;

d) the adequacy of current models of medical care; and

e) practical measures which will better support People Living with Epilepsy.

Submissions should be sent to
Jill Hall MP
Federal Member for Shortland
PO Box 499
Belmont NSW 2280

Or contact Helen Whitehead - CEO, Epilepsy Queensland on 07 3435 5000 or Epilepsy Australia on 02 9674 9966