The Australian Government is supporting more autistic job seekers to find and maintain meaningful employment through a new, targeted grant under the National Autism Strategy.
More than $900,000 is being provided to the Autistic Self Advocacy Network of Australia and New Zealand Inc. to deliver training and resources to improve awareness and understanding of autism, particularly in the workplace.
The funding will help boost the economic inclusion and workforce participation of autistic people by equipping them with the skills and tools they need to navigate complex employment pathways, gain employment or start a business, and thrive at work.
It will also boost the capacity of employers and employment providers to better support autistic employees by raising awareness of the importance of workplace adjustments in attracting and retaining autistic staff.
Resources will be targeted toward:
- Strengthening understanding of rights, including reasonable adjustments, discrimination, privacy, and decision-making
- Applying knowledge to workplace settings, showing what good practice looks like across recruitment, onboarding, supervision, performance management, and retention
- Improving psychological safety in employment contexts, through practices that reduce harm associated with bullying, unsafe disclosure, and retaliation.
Activities will be delivered nationally and primarily online, reaching metropolitan, regional, rural and remote communities.
The funding is part of the Employment training and resources for the autistic and autism community, employers and employer providers grant opportunity, which was delivered as part of ongoing work under the Strategy’s First Action Plan 2025-26.
Quotes attributable to NDIS Minister, Senator Jenny McAllister:
“We want people with autism to realise their full potential.
“An inclusive economy is one where everyone can participate fully – as employees, leaders, entrepreneurs and community members.
“Our government is investing in both job seekers and employers to help more autistic people land a job, succeed and progress their careers.
“Everyone benefits from greater inclusivity, so this is a win-win for employees and employers.”
