Yesterday marked an important milestone for people living with epilepsy, their families, carers and the organisations that support them, with the release of the final report from the Senate Inquiry into Epilepsy in Australia.
The report outlines 27 recommendations aimed at improving epilepsy care and support across Australia. Importantly, it recognises that better outcomes require more than medical treatment alone. Education, peer support, community connection, navigation services and practical day-to-day support all play a critical role in helping people live well with epilepsy.
Several recommendations specifically acknowledge the value of community epilepsy organisations, like Epilepsy Queensland, and the role they play in supporting people after diagnosis. This represents a significant step towards a more connected and person-centred epilepsy support system.
The report also recognises the need for a National Epilepsy Action Plan, improved epilepsy awareness, stronger referral pathways following diagnosis and greater access to community-based epilepsy support services. Together, these recommendations have the potential to improve quality of life, access to care and long-term outcomes for people living with epilepsy across Australia.
For Epilepsy Queensland, the report reflects much of what we have advocated for and aligns closely with the work we have championed for many years: bridging the gap between clinical care and everyday life.
While the report is an important achievement, the real work begins now. Meaningful change will depend on the implementation of these recommendations and investment in the services that support people living with epilepsy.
We are proud to have contributed to the Inquiry and to have helped amplify the voices of our community. Most importantly, this report exists because people living with epilepsy, families and carers shared their experiences and called for change.
Epilepsy Australia members at Parliament House Canberra for Senate Inquiry into Epilepsy in Australia public hearing 26 June 2026. Pictured: (L–R) Fiona Allardyce, Sam Bryce, Paul Quilliam, Nicole Coulthard, Sandi Rodiger
As implementation begins, Epilepsy Queensland will continue to work alongside government, sector partners, healthcare providers and community to help turn these recommendations into real improvements in people’s lives.
This is an important moment for our community, and we remain committed to leading the conversations, partnerships and advocacy needed to create a better future for everyone impacted by epilepsy. We will continue working to ensure people living with epilepsy and their families have access to the information, support, education and services they need to live well.
You can access the full report and recommendations through the Parliament of Australia Website.
For media interviews or comment regarding the Senate Inquiry recommendations and their implications for people living with epilepsy, please contact Tamara Ridley, Acting CEO, Epilepsy Queensland.
