Charity Partner: Autism Spectrum Australia

Autism is a condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, interacts with others, and experiences their environment. It is a lifelong disability that starts when a person is born and stays with them into old age. Every Autistic person is different to every other – this is why autism is described as a ‘spectrum’.

Autism is often linked with physical, developmental or mental health conditions. These could include intellectual disability, epilepsy, gastro-intestinal issues, ADHD, dyspraxia, anxiety or depression. However, many of the disabling challenges associated with autism come about when individuals don’t have respect, understanding and support. When they do, they can become much more comfortable in a non-Autistic world. So while many Autistic people experience difficulties, with the right support they can achieve a great quality of life, especially when receiving an early diagnosis and appropriate evidence informed treatment. 

By simply becoming more aware of the different and diverse ways each of us engages with our world, everyone can be more inclusive of all disabilities. Every time people adjust their behaviour and environment to accommodate a diverse range of abilities, they help create a far more inclusive environment for those who need it.

This may include being patient and understanding, giving people the space and time they need to process their surroundings, and understand if they need to exit a situation quickly, and keeping communication direct, clear and easy-to-follow.” 

Check out these fact sheets made available by Autism Spectrum Australia to find out more about autism