The OAP moved from a direct-service IBI model (pre-2019) to a "childhood budget" approach in 2019, where families receive individualized funding to purchase approved services. As of January 2026, 89,799 children are registered, but only 20,633 have active funding agreements (CBC FOI Jan 2026). The current budget is $965M for the 2025-26 fiscal year (Ontario Budget).

Source: Ontario Autism Program Guide / Ontario Budget 2025-26 / CBC FOI Jan 2026

To apply for the OAP, a child must have a documented autism diagnosis (ASD) from a qualified professional. Parents register through AccessOAP (administered by Autism Ontario). Registration is age-ordered — children are invited to funding based on their registration date, not clinical need. There is no way to expedite placement based on severity.

Source: Ontario.ca OAP Guide / AccessOAP