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About us
Autism Awareness Australia was founded in 2007 with one simple goal: to improve the lives of all Australians on the autism spectrum and the families who love them.
We’re all about families
Autism Awareness Australia has been a trusted, independent source of information for autism families for 18 years.
We know the right information changes lives. By informing, educating and empowering, our community, we work to create systemic change to improve the lives of all autistic Australians and their families.
18 YEARS
of supporting Australian families
212k
in our community audience
4.2m
readers / users in 2023/24
What we do
INFORMATION
Practical, evidence-based information for autistic people and families
EDUCATION
Empowering our community to drive systemic change
INCLUSION
Inclusion is at the heart of everything we do to create opportunities for everyone
AWARENESS
Raising awareness and acceptance of autism needs nationwide
ADVOCACY
We are recognised as strong advocates for the autism community
NATIONAL REACH
We run campaigns, events and workshops across Australia
MEDIA
We have a strong media presence across TV, radio and digital platforms
We partner with amazing organisations
Our people
Our dedicated team are committed to making a difference in the lives of those in the autism community, working tirelessly to raise awareness and advocate for the needs and rights of the autism community across the country.
Our impact
We are proud of the work we do! Our positive impact and support for the autism community has led to increased awareness and understanding, fostering a more inclusive society - our annual reports showcase this success along with our dedication to improving the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
In 2011, our inspiring work earned us NGO membership to the United Nations Department of Public Information (UNDPI). In 2013 we had the honour of presenting at the annual NGO conference in New York. This opportunity allows us to collaborate with a global network of organisations to further our shared goals.
Our community
Events
Explore our current events, webinars and community activities.
aUpdate
Explore our blogs for resources and stories about autism.
In the media
Stay updated with our latest news and advocacy in the media.
Use of language
Words connect us. The words we use create shared stories that can bring us together as a community.
At Autism Awareness Australia how words are used is very important to us. We know there are many different perspectives in the autism space and we respect people’s personal preferences about how they refer to themselves and others.
Many autistic people prefer to use identity-first language, like: ‘I am autistic’. There are also parents and families, who use person-first language, like: ‘I am a person with autism’ or ‘My child has autism’.
It might not seem like there’s much difference here but, for some people, it matters a lot.
Content from Autism Awareness Australia is written and produced by autistic people, as well as parents and carers of autistic children.
These amazing and courageous people have used their own words and their personal language to share their stories. That’s why there are different versions of autism language references throughout this platform.
By sharing these stories, we know we can build relationships and communities that support autistic people and the family and friends who love them.