Building community support

Community support is essential for the wellbeing of autistic adults and their parents/carers.

It goes beyond just helping out. It creates a network of understanding, empowerment, and mutual aid. This support plays many roles, including emotional support, practical assistance, advocacy, and social inclusion. Understanding these different aspects highlights how important community support is and how it positively impacts the lives of autistic individuals and their carers.

Finding local and online community supports can be an excellent way to meet other families and individuals with similar experiences. These groups often provide emotional support, practical advice, and resources that can help you navigate the complexities of autism.

Community support groups

Community support groups offer a unique form of support that can be incredibly beneficial. These groups bring together people with shared experiences, providing a platform for mutual support and understanding. 

• Autism Community Network: Based in NSW, the Autism Community Network organises social groups and information events. Their activities are designed to support individuals with autism and their families, offering opportunities for social interaction and learning. Additionally, they provide links to other NSW-based groups, expanding the network of support available.
• Different Journeys: A Melbourne-based organisation that runs social groups for autistic teenagers and adults, as well as their families. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment for social interaction, helping participants build friendships and develop social skills.
• Peer Connect: A comprehensive resource hub for peer support networks. While it supports networks for people with all disabilities, it is particularly valuable for those connected to the autism community. Peer Connect offers listings of local peer support networks in various states, personal stories about peer connections, and resources for starting up new peer support networks.
• The Carer Gateway: Offers peer support groups to help carers connect and share experiences. These groups provide emotional support and practical advice from fellow carers, available both online and in-person. Participating in these groups helps reduce isolation and enhances overall wellbeing.
• Autism Aboriginal Way: A support group specifically for Aboriginal parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This group provides a platform for parents to share their experiences, seek advice, and access resources tailored to their cultural context. 
• Autism Connect: A valuable resource for finding groups in your local area. By using their search tool, you can discover numerous support groups and organisations that cater to the needs of the autism community. This platform helps connect families and individuals with the resources and support they need to thrive.

Connecting with your state autism association is an excellent way to access local community support groups tailored to your needs. These associations provide valuable resources, support services, and opportunities to connect with other families and carers. They can help you find local events, peer support groups, and specialised programs that enhance the wellbeing and development of individuals with autism and their families. For more information, visit your state’s autism association website in the tabs below.