Aspect - Autism Spectrum Australia

Happy Father's Day to all the dads, stepdads, granddads and dad figures out there! We hope you get a chance to relax and enjoy some well-deserved appreciation today. 🧡

Dr Chris Edwards and Dr Ru Ying Cai, the researchers behind the Aspect Self-compassion Program for Autistic Adults (ASPAA), have received an Early Career Research Award at The MHS Learning Network Mental Health Service Awards Ceremony.

The award, which was presented by awards ambassador, Julie Millard AM, recognises several years of pioneering research by Ru and Chris that resulted in the development of ASPAA, a free online program which helps Autistic people improve their self-compassion, emotion regulation and mental health. Over the last year, around 650 people have registered to use the program.

Find out more about ASPAA: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research/evidence-informed-guides-programs/aspaa

Exciting news! Include a Charity Week begins on Monday, a week when Australians are encouraged to leave a gift in their Will to a charitable organisation and Safewill is offering FREE Will writing! 💚

An estimated 1 in 40 people are on the autism spectrum. By including a gift in your Will, you can help secure a strong future for Aspect and bring our vision to life. A gift of even 1% in your Will helps shape a future where Autistic people live their lives fully and authentically. From building new school campuses to upgrading essential facilities, these gifts are crucial as they support transformative projects without government funding. 🌟

In just 20 minutes, you can create a Will at no cost (typically $160) and make a meaningful impact by including a gift to Aspect. This Will is reviewed by Safewill Legal and comes with a year of free and unlimited updates.

👉 Get started here: https://safewill.com/aspect?utm_content=ptnr&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=aspect_sep_IAC_Week_Sep_2024

For questions, reach out to Nadine Eulgem ([email protected] or call 1800 288 476)

For our supporters with more complex Estates an online Will may not be appropriate and we recommend you obtain financial and legal advice before signing a Will.

🌈 Celebrating Wear it Purple Day at Aspect! 🌈 Our head office team kicked off the celebrations with a splash of colour and a lot of heart! 💜 We enjoyed some delicious donuts, tested our knowledge with a fun quiz on the hashtag + community, and focused on this year’s theme, "Your Pride, Your Passion," which celebrates the unique dreams, talents, and aspirations of young LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Today, on the official Wear it Purple Day 💜, we proudly continue to wear purple, standing by our commitment to creating safe and welcoming spaces for everyone.

📃 Curious to learn more? Check out this page to explore interesting stats and studies on the intersection of being Autistic and LGBTQIA+: https://www.aspect.org.au/news/wear-it-purple-2024


Wear it Purple

🌅🦖 This Saturday the 31st August, experience the Australian Museum with an Early Birds event— specially designed and developed in partnership with Aspect’s Autism Friendly Team, for Autistic people and those with sensory sensitivities.

Enjoy the Museum's exhibits in a relaxed and supportive environment before the doors open to the public. With limited visitors, interactive touch tables, and adjusted lighting and sound, it's a comfortable and engaging way to explore together with friends and family. Museum staff, trained in autism awareness and disability, will be there to support your visit.

A visual story is available to help you prepare and know what to expect for your visit.

Find out more and register for this accessible event: https://australian.museum/event/Early-Birds-Access-Mornings/

Discover more autism-friendly events on our calendar on Aspect's website: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/autism-friendly/calendar-of-autism-friendly?state=allStates&start=2024-07-30&end=2025-08-28

Reminder: Our latest podcast episode is now live! Host Madeleine Lobsey (Wondiverse ) welcomes actor Michael Theo to explore the theme of 'friendships.' Michael opens up about his personal journey, sharing the challenges and joys of building connections and how he’s learned to appreciate and nurture them over time.

Search for 'A Different Brilliant' on your preferred app and tune in for a great conversation!

Apple podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/michael-theo-talks-friendships/id1499433106?i=1000664415359

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2Gh7h1PA4be7HpfUfe7mMp

Discover the new Aspect Hills Shire School, set to open in January 2025! Immerse yourself in a special video message from our Principal, a captivating 3D walkthrough, and stunning 3D renders of what our beautiful campus and facilities will look like.
Explore the vision for our new campus now 👉 https://www.aspect.org.au/hills-shire-school

It's Speech Pathology Week! At Aspect, we’ve seen the incredible impact of speech pathology in helping children like Paula, who began speaking after joining a supportive group like Guides Australia. Our therapist, Marlene Eksteen, reminds us that structured social settings can make a world of difference in fostering communication skills. Have a read 👉https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-25/girl-guides-helps-paula-konedaris-who-has-autism-thrive/103962480

The Assembly has been praised by the community for its authentic portrayal of Autistic students, its emotional depth, and its focus on the strengths and capabilities of the students. In an article for The Conversation Australia + NZ, Autistic academic Sandra Thom-Jones (UOW: University of Wollongong, Australia), captures how the show demonstrates the students’ ability to ask insightful questions, engage deeply, and showcase their talents, breaking down stereotypes along the way.

What stands out for Sandra is:
1️⃣ A culture of inclusivity where students are encouraged to be themselves.
2️⃣ A sensory-friendly environment that meets their needs.
3️⃣ A supportive community that celebrates each other’s successes.
4️⃣ An empathetic mentorship from journalist Sales.

Having supported the cast and crew alongside autism consultant Emma Beardsley, Aspect Practice Executive Manager Tom Tutton said "We hope The Assembly demonstrates that with Aspect’s high quality autism-friendly accommodations and supports, educational and workplace environments can be genuinely inclusive and successful"

Well done to our Autism Friendly team for their work on with ABC ABC iview and Helium Limited, but also Macquarie University and Stop Films

Read The Conversation article here 👉 https://theconversation.com/new-abc-show-the-assembly-highlights-how-neurodivergence-can-enhance-jobs-or-study-235893

“I knew in my heart that my daughter was Autistic by 18-months old, but what first clued me in was not what most people think of as indicators of autism,” recalls Ainslie in our latest blog post: (LINK IN BIO or www.aspect.org.au/blog)

Ainslie’s story is not uncommon. That’s why we are conducting a study to find out whether differences in the characteristics and behaviours of Autistic boys and girls in their very early years might contribute to missed or late diagnosis of autism.

This study is closing soon. Can you help? We are seeking input from parents/caregivers of Australian children/youth aged 12 to 25 who were diagnosed with autism at age 12 or older. We would especially like to hear from more parents of Autistic males. Please consider sharing your experiences to inform diagnostic criteria and enhance support services for all children: LINK IN BIO or www.tinyurl.com/arcapgender

Who's excited about The Assembly's premiere tonight on ABC TV and ABC iview? We sure are! 🎉

This incredible series showcases Autistic student journalists as they interview some of Australia’s biggest names, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Delta Goodrem, and Sam Neill.

Aspect is proud to have provided a comprehensive framework of support, including visual stories, well-structured learning sessions, sensory environment adaptations, and daily support to help these young journalists shine.

Want to know more about Aspect's involvement in bringing this project to life? Check out the full story here: https://www.aspect.org.au/news/aspect-partners-with-abc-for-the-assembly

Tune in tonight at 8:30 PM (AEST) and join us in cheering on these amazing young journalists! 📺✨

Aspect partners with Helium Pictures for ABC's "The Assembly" One of Australia’s most renowned interviewers, Leigh Sales, mentors Autistic journalism students as they learn their craft and interview well-known…

A little peek behind the scenes with our Aspect Autism Friendly team and Sydney Airport as we team up to create new resources for travellers! ✈️

Sydney Airport has been amazing in supporting the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and working with us on sensory maps, journey planners, and specialist staff training. These efforts help make sure everyone, including those with hidden disabilities, can feel supported across all Sydney Airport terminals.

Last week’s photos and videos and some new research near completion from the Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) will be used to develop even more great resources —stay tuned!


Rising Sun Photography Sydney

Yesterday, we were thrilled to host a special pre-screening of The Assembly, the groundbreaking ABC show that follows a group of Autistic students as they embark on a powerful journey into , breaking barriers and sharing their authentic voices with the world.

The night was filled with an incredible mix of emotions ❤ —plenty of laughs and more than a few tears, especially while watching the first episode featuring the wonderful Sam Neill. People have called it raw, real, honest, funny, authentic, joyful, and heart-wrenching, and we couldn't agree more!

The evening began with an opening address from Tom Tutton (Aspect Autism Friendly), Jacqui Borland (Aspect CEO), and Melissa Maclean (Executive Producer & Director at Limited), followed by the screening of episode one.

We then enjoyed a lively and fun Q&A session with cast members Angus Hamil (Insta: ) and Bethany Woodman. The night wrapped up with some networking and photo opportunities with the cast and the much-loved Australian actor Michael Theo (Insta: mr_a_plus_michael)

We are incredibly proud to be part of this adventure and beyond excited for you to discover this inspiring group of journalism students, trained by Macquarie University and supported by our very own Aspect Autism Friendly team.

The Assembly premieres on Tuesday, 20 August on ABC TV and ABC iview , it is not to be missed!

Leigh Sales

Most photos by Rising Sun Photography Sydney

A massive shoutout to our unstoppable City2Surf heroes 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ who crushed the 14km course, conquered Heartbreak Hill and raised an incredible $11,000 to support Aspect! 💪🏅 Thank you all for your amazing spirit and support!

Loneliness is a growing concern that affects many Australians, including those in the Autistic community. At Aspect, Dr. Vicki Gibbs and our research team have been exploring how impacts mental health and well-being. Our findings highlight the importance of building connections and support networks.

Read more about our research and check out the latest coverage on SBS to see why this issue matters:

🔗 SBS Article: https://www.sbs.com.au/news/podcast-episode/a-silence-thats-always-around-you-report-highlights-the-crisis-of-persistent-loneliness-in-australia/rp4v1lswi

🔗 Aspect Loneliness Research: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research/latest-research/loneliness

A "silence that's always around you": report highlights the crisis of persistent loneliness in Australia Loneliness is essentially a feeling of not having the connection or companionship someone wants and needs. For some people, those feelings can last a long time. Experts and those with lived experience are hoping to change that, especially for those who are more vulnerable to social isolation.

As Australia gets ready to cheer on our incredible athletes at the 🎉 Paris 2024 Paralympics, it’s a timely reminder of how vital inclusion in sports is—not just for physical health, but for mental well-being and social connections too. 🙌

A recent Aspect study revealed that over two-thirds of Autistic individuals want to be more active, but they often encounter barriers like communication and sensory differences, a lack of autism awareness, physical challenges, and feelings of exclusion.

At Aspect, we're dedicated to creating more autism-friendly spaces. Through partnerships with organisations like Western Sydney Wanderers FC and Basketball NSW, we're working towards more inclusive sports environments. If your association or club is interested in our autism-friendly services, we'd love to connect. Learn more 👉 https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/autism-friendly/im-from-a-business

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-06/mother-paralympian-grace-brimelow-urges-more-inclusion/104164804

Paralympian's mum urges Aussies to 'think of sidelined kids' As Australia prepares to cheer Grace Brimelow on at the 2024 Paralympics, her mum Simone Pearce says it is the perfect time to focus on improving inclusion at grassroots levels.

To mark Loneliness Awareness Week (5–11 August), we’re sharing research from a new Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) study where researchers co-developed an accessible survey that uses clear questions, hotlinks and helpful visuals to more accurately measures loneliness of Autistic people.

For the first time the researchers have been able to gather more precise and trustworthy information about the loneliness levels of Autistic individuals, which is essential for developing targeted supports.

Thank you to the hundreds of people from the Autistic and autism communities who helped trial the loneliness measurement tool early this year. Careful analysis of the data found that Autistic people face heightened and more frequent feelings of loneliness compared to their non-Autistic peers, leading to increased risks of depression, anxiety and other severe health outcomes. This new tool will help therapists and psychologists better understand and support Autistic clients.

ARCAP’s work in this area has only just begun. They are planning another loneliness study that will be launched later this year.
https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research/latest-research/loneliness

Exploring loneliness of Autistic adults How can we measure loneliness of Autistic adults and support them in reducing their loneliness levels?

APAC is back in 2025! Autism Association of Western Australia will be hosting the Asia Pacific Autism Conference in Perth from the 13th -15th of November 2025.

Welcoming an international audience, the conference brings together Autistic people, educators, medical professionals, researchers, allied health professionals, policy makers, NGOs, public sector professionals and families, to an exciting three-day conference.

Save the date and join the mailing list to keep up to date with information on the upcoming

Join the mailing list here: https://apac25.org/registration/

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium will be opening their doors for a ‘Sensory Session' on August 10th from 8-9:30am. Along with turning off our sound, dimming lights, and welcoming guests outside of operating hours, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium will be restricting numbers per timeslot. This event has a reduced cost with all proceeds going towards Merlin Magic Wand Charity ✨

Learn more and book online to guarantee entry:
https://www.aspect.org.au/community-events/quiet-morning-sensory-session-at-sea-life

Earlier this month, our Individual and Community Services team celebrated the incredible work of our ICS staff in an award ceremony. From mentorship and strengths-based practice to leadership, autism specialisation, collaboration, and teamwork, the ICS Awards highlight the many ways our dedicated staff support Autistic participants and their families/carers every day.

Congratulations to all the award recipients! Your contributions are vital to Aspect’s mission and culture.

Yesterday, we had the honour of welcoming the Hon Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education, to our Aspect Satellite class at Trinity Catholic College, in Auburn (NSW). The visit highlighted the incredible value of school partnerships and the unique impact of the autism-specific classes operated by Aspect in mainstream schools.

Minister Clare had insightful discussions with Aspect CEO Jacqui Borland and Aspect Education Director Maryanne Gosling about the wide range of settings needed to support the Autistic community and the importance of continuous training and development for skilled staff. They were joined by Principal of Aspect South East Sydney School Joanne Tisdell and Principal of Trinity Catholic College Rick Grech.

We are very grateful for the Hon Jason Clare MP ’s time to gaining firsthand insights into Aspect's satellite classes 🙏

An autism diagnosis can profoundly impact a teen's life, offering the clarity and support needed to thrive. Equally important is the response from family and community, which plays a crucial role in shaping their mental health and sense of identity.

📰 Our researchers are currently exploring the very early development and pathways to diagnosis of children living in Australia who do not receive an autism diagnosis until adolescence or later. We are seeking parents or carers of Autistic youth (aged 12 to 25) who received an autism diagnosis at 12 years or older and are living in Australia. Please complete a 30-minute survey: https://www.tinyurl.com/arcapgender

The research will be used to inform clinical assessment practices at Aspect and results will be shared with the wider autism and research communities to increase awareness of how autism may present in young girls and boys.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-22/teenager-child-autism-diagnosis-support-parents-friends/104123872

Teenage autism diagnosis can 'help everything make sense', but what happens next can be life saving Teenagers say an autism diagnosis can help explain why life has been more challenging for them than their peers. But how parents respond to their diagnosis can be crucial.

Navigating the banking world can be challenging for many Autistic adults due to limited accessibility and a lack of autism understanding by banks. Funded by Beyond Bank, our researchers explored the financial experiences of Autistic adults in Australia. Our newly published research paper highlights these key findings:

• Preference for online banking: Most Autistic adults prefer online banking for its convenience and reduced need for face-to-face interaction.
• Supportive bank staff: Understanding and helpful bank staff significantly enhance the banking experience for Autistic customers.
• Challenges faced: Many Autistic individuals encounter difficulties due to sensory environments in banks, complex procedures, and a lack of financial knowledge. Miscommunications with staff can further exacerbate these issues.
• Recommendations for banks: To become more autism-friendly, banks should provide clear communication, autism awareness training for staff, quiet waiting areas, and more accessible online services.

While many prefer online banking, some Autistic adults value in-person interactions. Unfortunately, the trend of closing bank branches and moving towards cashless transactions may disadvantage those who prefer face-to-face contact. Therefore, maintaining in-branch banking is crucial for inclusion and accessibility.

Read more about the research and our recommendations on making banking inclusive for Autistic adults: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research/impact/creating-inclusive-world/financial-experiences-in-australia

Each year our therapy and assessments team come together over two days for personal development and learning. This year’s Aspect Assessments and Therapy Conference (AATNC) provided valuable support to our dedicated teams, enhancing their skills to better serve our community. The theme, "Flourish," focused on insightful sessions on the holistic wellbeing of Autistic individuals. They explored inclusive education, evidence-based clinical approaches, and innovative strategies for empowering individuals and families. Thank you to all attendees and speakers for making it a success. Together, we're shaping a future where Autistic people can flourish!