New FASD guidelines

New guidelines have been released to help assess and diagnose Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). These are the first set of clinical practice guidelines in the country and will see a powerful shift toward trauma-informed, culturally safe, and person-centred practices.

The guidelines have been developed to support Australian health providers involved in the assessment and diagnosis of FASD. It is expected that around 3.64% of Australians have FASD, it is reported that 1 in every classroom a child has FASD.

Why these guidelines matter

FASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder caused by prenatal alcohol exposure, that often goes undiagnosed. FASD is considered a spectrum as there is a large variation in the types and severity of each individual’s symptoms and experiences, making it hard to recognise in individuals and easily misunderstood by health professionals.

The 2025 guidelines bring a renewed focus on; individuals receiving an accurate diagnosis, promoting collaboration across organisations, and culturally informed care. These are all very important steps in recognising the complex experiences of individuals and families that are impacted by FASD.

At Synapse, we view these guidelines as a vital tool in reducing the stigma, improving understanding, and enhancing the support systems across sectors including health, education, justice, and community.

A trauma-informed lens

The guidelines recognise the relationship between FASD and trauma (such as domestic violence or other traumatic circumstances).

This is something we have long championed in our work with people impacted by brain injury. By recognising that many individuals with FASD have experienced significant adversity, the guidelines align with Synapse’s commitment to creating safe, respectful spaces that prioritise emotional wellbeing and avoid revisiting trauma.

This approach is essential for building trust and achieving lasting results for individuals and families.

Cultural Safety at the Centre

We applaud the guidelines’ commitment to cultural safety, particularly in assessment processes involving First Nations peoples. For too long, diagnostic practices have failed to recognise the intersection between FASD and systemic inequities. Synapse strongly supports practices that empower community-led solutions and uphold the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

As we continue to walk alongside First Nations communities, these guidelines strengthen our shared call for culturally grounded, strengths-based frameworks.

Towards inclusive systems

Diagnosis is not an endpoint, it’s a doorway to understanding, advocacy, and appropriate support. These guidelines remind us of the urgent need for service systems that are inclusive, coordinated, and responsive. This means breaking down silos and building bridges between health, disability, education, and community sectors.

At Synapse, we advocate for service pathways that honour each person’s story and empower them to thrive.

Sources:

• Estimating the Prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder in Australia, Accessed May 2025: https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.14082
• FASD Hub, Accessed May 2025: https://fasdhub.org.au/
• National Guidelines for Assessment and Diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Accessed May 2025: https://child-health-research.centre.uq.edu.au/files/11771/Main-guidelines_full-version.pdf