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Transforming Cerebral Palsy Care in Bangladesh
An Australia initiative is changing lives
Nic Stuart
April 10, 2025
The abilityNEWS Daily
The Big Story
An Australian program is heightening awareness of CP in Bangladesh
A Cerebral Palsy Australia program assists with early diagnosis
In Bangladesh, most children with cerebral palsy miss early rehabilitation due to staff shortages, high costs and travel challenges. Cerebral Palsy Australia’s SMART CP initiative is delivering care through telehealth and community networks, enabling earlier diagnosis and practical support.
The boy couldn't walk. His limbs curled unnaturally, like dried leaves. But what struck Gulam Khandaker most was not the condition—it was the silence. No one had ever told the mother what cerebral palsy was.
In Bangladesh, half the children with CP receive no treatment. Nothing. By the time help arrives—if it ever does—the brain has long missed the chance to rewire itself. And even for those who get something, the first appointment usually comes at four years old. That’s years too late.
This isn’t about neglect. It’s about access. The numbers are brutal. One physiotherapist for every 106,000 people. In Australia it’s one for every 750. Distance and money strangle what little hope remains.
But a quiet revolution is slowly occurring. Backed by Australia’s Cerebral Palsy Alliance, the SMART CP Model has started rewiring more than just brains—it’s changing systems.
Khandaker and the team at CSF Global have built a network of community informants—teachers, imams, health workers—who identify kids early. Mothers form support groups. And rehab comes via mobile phone.
The change is simple, but profound.
The Briefing
Image courtesy Physical Disability Australia
SMART CP: Transforming Cerebral Palsy Care in Bangladesh
By Cerebral Palsy Alliance
In Bangladesh, most children with cerebral palsy miss early rehabilitation due to staff shortages, high costs and travel challenges. The SMART CP initiative delivers care through telehealth and community networks, enabling earlier diagnosis and practical support.
Have wheelchair, will travel: yes, no, maybe?
By Physical Disability Australia
Air travel remains inconsistent and often discriminatory for passengers with physical disabilities, despite existing laws meant to ensure equal treatment. Concerns are growing over airline policies, aircraft design, and international partnerships that may deepen the barriers faced by disabled travellers.
Dreaming of inclusive education: a poem by a young person with disability
By Children and Young People with Disability Australia
A young person with disability shares a moving poem envisioning schools where every student belongs and is valued equally. As the federal election nears, the piece urges leaders to prioritise inclusive education for all learners.
Microsoft Introduces Gamepad Keyboard in Windows 11, Opening New Possibilities for Accessibility
By Centre For Accessibility Australia
Microsoft has rolled out a new gamepad-optimised keyboard in Windows 11 for smoother typing using an Xbox controller. The redesigned layout enhances usability for those relying on controllers, including individuals with physical disability.
Image courtesy Microsoft
The Wrap
Tradies abandon building project for NDIS recipients as alleged debts pile up
By News.com.au
A construction company building a multistorey apartment block for people on the NDIS has denied being on the brink of collapse, as tradies abandon the site in droves amid disputes over debts and alleged defects identified by the building regulator.
What's gonna happen to the NDIS after the election?
By ABC JJJ 'Hack'
Hundreds of thousands of Australians rely on the NDIS for support, and a lot of them are worried that the changes are really about cutting corners to make the scheme run cheaper. So, what are the major parties promising when it comes to disability support? Hack reporter Jackson Worthington went to an open forum in Perth to find out.
Kuremara to Participate in Sydney Disability Connection Expo 2025
By medianet
“At Kuremara, we believe in a future where disability support is not only accessible but also empowering,” said Saru Chifadza, Chief Operating Officer at Kuremara Care. “Events like the Sydney Disability Connection Expo play a vital role in breaking down barriers and creating genuine opportunities for connection and progress.”
PAID CONTENT: RFW pilot brings hope for struggles shown in Autism Parent/Carer Survey
By Western Plains App
The results of the 2025 National Autism Parent/Carer Survey from Autism Awareness Australia highlight the challenges many families face when seeking specialist help. "This report is more than a data snapshot. It's a call to reset. To stop patching holes and start designing systems around the people who use them," the report stated.
The Diary
Friday Art Goup
The Friday Art Group hosted by Disability to Ability South Australia is a weekly event designed to help participants unleash their creativity and explore their artistic side. Held every Friday, the group welcomes individuals of all skill levels to join us in a fun and relaxed environment. All art materials are supplied, so all you need to do is register and show up.
Date: 11 April 2025 (Recurring event)
Location: 3/25 Philip Highway, Elizabeth (SA)
Time: 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
NDIS Recent Changes: Applying for the NDIS with Autism & ADHD
WWDACT and Nick Avery from South West Autism Network are hosting a free online and in-person workshop covering the recent NDIS changes from October 2024. The sessions will cover information on supports available and application requirements for the NDIS for individuals with autism and ADHD.
Date: Online 16 April 2025 (In person - 17 April)
Location: Online (In person - Yass Community Centre NSW)
Time: Online 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM (In person - 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM)
Multicultural Disability Expo 2025
The Multicultural Disability Expo 2025 is an inclusive event designed to connect, empower, and invite people of all abilities and backgrounds to share experiences, gain knowledge, and access essential support services. From interactive exhibits to engaging workshops, this event is designed to bring together individuals, families, carers, professionals, and organisations dedicated to supporting diverse people with disabilities.
Date: 24 April 2025 (also on 26 November 2025)
Location: Stirling Leisure Community Centres, 1 Light St Dianella (WA)
Time: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
