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We have changed our name! Kids on the Spectrum is now called Living on the Spectrum

Australia has its first National Autism Strategy.

Today marks a significant milestone for Autistic Australians as the Albanese Labor Government unveils Australia’s first National Autism Strategy and an accompanying Action Plan. This comprehensive initiative actively fosters inclusion, enhances support, and improves life outcomes for Autistic individuals across Australia. Moreover, the Albanese Government remains committed to ensuring Autistic Australians feel understood, empowered, and supported. It strives to create spaces and environments tailored to their unique needs.

For the first time, the Strategy and Action Plan will drive a national approach to inclusion barriers. It will enhance evidence, understanding, and acceptance of autism, ensuring Autistic Australians have equal opportunities and tailored support.

National Autism directory

A Collaborative Effort

The National Autism Strategy Oversight Council guided the Strategy’s development and shaped its direction. The process included extensive consultation with Autistic individuals, families, carers, researchers, experts, and the broader autism and disability sectors.

One of the recurring themes during its development was the issue of ‘masking’—where Autistic individuals feel the need to conceal their true selves to navigate a neurotypical world. The Strategy directly addresses this, aiming to create a society where Autistic people can live authentically.

Four Key Outcome Areas

The Strategy focuses on four critical outcome areas to overcome the unique challenges faced by Autistic Australians:

  • Social Inclusion
  • Economic Inclusion
  • Diagnosis, Services, and Supports
  • Health and Mental Health

A Vision for a More Inclusive Australia

Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth highlighted the transformative potential of this initiative:
“Our Albanese Labor Government is committed to improving the lives of nearly 300,000 Autistic Australians, which is why we’ve delivered the first National Autism Strategy.

“Addressing barriers in areas such as education, employment, and diagnosis is long overdue. This Strategy, developed through consultation with Autistic individuals, will create meaningful and lasting change.

“Collaboration with Autistic people will remain central as we implement the Strategy and Action Plan, ensuring their diverse needs are met.”

Backed by Funding and Practical Steps

The First Action Plan, supported by $42.3 million in funding, outlines practical measures the Government will take over the next two years, including:

  • $19.9 million over four years for a peer support program to provide lived-experience advice tailored to Autistic people’s needs.
  • $915,000 over two years to enhance community understanding and acceptance of autism through awareness and education initiatives.
  • $445,000 in 2025-26 to improve the diagnosis process with resources for pre- and post-diagnosis support.
  • $915,000 over two years to boost pathways to meaningful employment for Autistic individuals.
  • $12.2 million over five years to establish a knowledge translation body to turn academic research into practical policy and service improvements.
  • $3.7 million over two years to evaluate existing programs, identify gaps, and improve outcomes for Autistic people.
  • $2.8 million over four years for a comprehensive epidemiological study to determine the true prevalence of autism in Australia, shaping future policy development.

Health and Mental Health Focus

The National Roadmap to Improve Health for Autistic People will directly deliver the Strategy’s health outcomes. Additionally, this targeted Roadmap will address mental health outcomes with a comprehensive and focused approach.

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Accessible Resources

The National Autism Strategy and its First Action Plan are available on the Department of Social Services website. Supporting materials, including accessible versions, can also be accessed online for convenience. This initiative shows the Government’s commitment to an inclusive Australia. It aims to help Autistic individuals participate fully and thrive in every aspect of life.

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