Schools may assign EAs based on IEP needs, but **47% of families** report insufficient supports. [OAC] EA availability varies by board and often fails to match clinical needs, leaving many autistic students without necessary classroom support.

Source: Ontario Education Act & OAC

Ontario autism wait times vary by region: Toronto/GTA: 5+ years (33,000+ waiting), Ottawa: 5+ years, Hamilton: 5+ years, London: 5+ years, Northern Ontario: 6+ years. These estimates are based on FOI data and family reports showing regional delays are universally 5+ years for Core Clinical funding invitations.

Source: CBC FOI Jan 2026 & Family Reports

Ontario autism wait times vary significantly by region. Toronto/GTA averages 5+ years (33,000+ waiting), while Northern Ontario families face 6+ year waits with few providers. Ottawa and London regions report 5+ year waits. Rural families often travel 100km+ for services.

Source: CBC FOI Jan 2026 & Family Reports

Northern Ontario faces a severe autism service crisis with only ~12 BCBAs serving 800,000km². Families travel 500km+ for therapy, facing winter closures and annual travel costs exceeding $30,000. Indigenous communities face significant barriers to accessing OAP services in remote areas.

Source: Northern Health Equity Report