New Zealand is investing $9 million, the single biggest investment ever made in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), to establish community-based hubs in Rotorua/Kawerau, Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey says.

“This is the first time in New Zealand there has been FASD-dedicated assessment, diagnosis and support in community settings, helping children, young people and their families access earlier care," Mr Doocey says.

"We know early intervention makes a real difference. By identifying children earlier and supporting families sooner, we can improve lifelong health, learning and development outcomes.

"Last year we launched the Government’s new approach to FASD, supported by a significant funding boost of $4.6 million to prevent FASD, improve diagnosis and support, and strengthen help for affected families.

"As part of that plan, we are now establishing three community-based hubs that will provide assessment, diagnosis and ongoing support for children and young people with FASD.

"The hubs will be operational in each location by October this year. They will provide referral and screening, comprehensive assessments, specialist support, navigation services and family support.

"These three locations have been selected because they reflect areas of significant need.

"This responds to longstanding barriers people have faced in accessing timely FASD assessment and diagnosis. We know limited access has created uncertainty for families and made it more difficult to receive the support they need.

"Delays in diagnosis and assessment create stress for families, limit access to support, and contribute to poorer long-term outcomes. We know how important access to timely assessment and support is for improving outcomes for children and young people with FASD.

"I want New Zealand to be a country where people are supported to have alcohol free pregnancies, where FASD is better understood, where our workforce is better equipped, and where people living with FASD and their families receive the support they deserve.

"FASD is widespread and impacts thousands of families. Around 1,800 to 3,000 babies may be born with FASD each year in New Zealand, and the condition can significantly affect lifelong health, learning and development.

"For too long, too many families have struggled to access the help they need. These new community-based hubs are an important step towards earlier diagnosis, better support and improved outcomes for children, young people and their families."