Cerebral Palsy Costs $2.4B a Year in Australia

Cerebral palsy costs Australia $2.4 billion every year in health care, lost productivity and premature death, according to a new report. A report that was commissioned by Cerebral Palsy Australia estimates that there are 33,800 Australians living with CP.

"The analysis underscores the need for strategies in Australia to address cerebral palsy and its impacts, including research, better diagnosis and early intervention," said Access Economics director Lynne Pezzullo.

A representative for Cerebral Palsy Australia said the research proves one of the biggest problems for cerebral palsy is employment. Finding appropriate employment opportunities that provide flexibility are critical.

The industry is challenged by the task of attracting and retaining staff in career roles. Accommodation for people with cerebral palsy is also a challenge.

As people with cerebral palsy reach adulthood, the support network they had as children may not always remain in place.