Navigating social and peer groups

Peer support is essential to the autism community, providing a space where autistic individuals can find understanding and friendship.

Across Australia, various autism support groups cater to different needs and interests. Whether online or in-person, these groups offer essential resources, social connections, and support for autistic people.

What is peer support?

Peer support involves connecting with others who share similar experiences, providing mutual understanding, and creating a community of shared experiences. For autistic individuals, peer support groups offer an invaluable space for sharing joys and challenges, gaining information, and supporting a sense of belonging. These groups are available throughout Australia, usually in larger towns and cities, with many accessible online, making them reachable even for those in remote areas.

Autism support groups cater to diverse interests and needs. While some are exclusively autism-specific, others offer broader disability support. Typically, these groups provide:

• NDIS information: Guidance on navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
• Social gatherings and recreational activities: Opportunities for social interaction and fun activities.
• Training and workshops: Sessions on physical and mental health, employment, finance, and housing.
• Self-development, empowerment, and mentoring: Resources for personal growth and mentorship.
• Special interests forums: Spaces to pursue and discuss hobbies and interests.

Participation in these groups can sometimes be limited to specific age groups, such as young adults, or certain attributes, such as women only. 

Here are some well-established autism support groups in Australia:

• Asperger’s Victoria: Provides peer support groups, educational events, and resources on Asperger’s syndrome and employment readiness.
• Different Journeys: Facilitates peer-run social platforms with activities like inspirational talks, sports, creative sessions, gaming, quiz nights, and special-interest discussions.
• Autism Community Network: A Sydney-based organisation offering social groups and information events.
• Aspie Rebels: A Melbourne-based social club for autistic individuals.

Many of these groups offer face-to-face and online events, making them accessible to a broader audience, including those in rural or regional areas.

To locate autism support groups near you, several resources are available:

• Autism Connect: The national independent autism information line.
• State-Based support groups: Search for groups in your specific state for more localised support.
• Aspect: Provides advice on support groups across Australia.
• The A List Hub: a valuable resource where young autistic and neurodivergent individuals can find autism-friendly activities and connect with like-minded peers. 
• Living on the Spectrum: a free national autism and spectrum directory offering extensive resources.
• Social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and Meetup host various niche, autism-specific peer and interest groups.

Examples of social media groups include:

• Autistic Women’s Association: A large Facebook-based group run by and for autistic women.
• The Autism-Employment Conversation: An Australian Facebook group focused on improving employment outcomes for autistic individuals.
• NDIS Grassroots Discussion: A Facebook group discussing the NDIS for people with various disabilities, their families, and carers.

Starting your own support group

Starting an autism peer support group can be incredibly rewarding. Several useful resources are available to help you get started. Amaze offers a practical guide on creating your own autism peer support group, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips. Another valuable resource is Peer Connect, a comprehensive hub for peer support networks that cater to people with various disabilities. Peer Connect provides stories about peer connections and resources to assist you in starting and maintaining a support network.

Benefits of peer support groups

Participating in autism peer support groups offers many benefits:

• Emotional support: Sharing experiences with others who understand can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Practical advice: Groups often share valuable information on managing various aspects of life, from health to employment.
• Social connection: These groups provide opportunities to make new friends and build a supportive community.
• Empowerment: Being part of a group can boost confidence and encourage personal growth.

Autism peer support groups play an important role in providing support, building community, and improving the lives of autistic individuals across Australia. Whether through in-person meetings or online platforms, these groups offer a space for understanding, growth, and connection. By joining an existing group or starting a new one, autistic individuals and their families can find the support they need to navigate life's challenges and celebrate their successes.