Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect)

World Autism Understanding Month is coming in April 2026 and we’re expanding our celebration of Autistic voices, strengths, and experiences across the whole month! 📅 Save the date and register your interest now to: 🔹 Get early access to the FREE resource pack 🔹 Stay updated on campaign news 🔹 Let us know if you can support with digital or print ad space (billboards, digital screens, magazines, and more!) Don't miss out on all the news and resources, register your interest now 👉 aspect.org.au/WAUM Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice - ARCAP Aspect Autism Friendly - Imogen Johnson - Katherine Fraser - Robyn Eicker - Bethany Woodman - Abbey Faulkner - Angus Hamill #WorldAutismUnderstandingMonth #WAUM2026 #AutismUnderstanding #Autism #Inclusion #AutisticVoices

Laying the foundations at Port Macquarie! 🧱🥰 Yesterday, staff, families and community members came together to mark an exciting milestone: the laying of the foundations for our new Aspect Port Macquarie campus in Thrumster. A Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Bill opened the gathering, honouring Birpai Country. Maryanne Gosling, National Director, Education, guided the ceremony, with parent Ashlee Law sharing a moving reflection about the impact of Aspect schooling on her family ❤. Principal Craig McNee McNee also spoke about the importance of autism-informed learning spaces as demand grows across the region. Leteasha Ruttley, Aboriginal Education Learning Officer at Aspect Hunter School, presented three beautiful student-created Aboriginal artworks that will be part of the new campus. Local Aspect high school students excelled as they prepared and served morning tea ☕🍪, and even joined a podcast recording with local MP Robert Dwyer during his visit. 🙌 The new K–6 campus will accommodate up to 48 students across eight classrooms and is on track to open in early 2026. We look forward to seeing this new space take shape over the coming months! #AspectEducation #AspectPortMaquarie #AspectSchool #AutismSchool #autism #Education Modstruct Group

It was a fantastic day on the green for our Aspect Community Services lawn bowls group! 🏆 Australia’s number one bowler Josh Walker-Davis (Instagram @josh_wd314) generously volunteered his time to support participants and join in the fun! 🙏 Our relationship with the Hawthorn Bowling Club has grown over four years, and their consistent support continues to mean so much to our participants. 🥰 President David Schramm joined us on the day, offering friendly coaching tips and encouraging everyone throughout the session. This partnership shows how local clubs can help create opportunities for people in meaningful and enjoyable ways. Thank you to the Hawthorn Bowling Club, special guests Josh and David, participants and staff for bringing so much enthusiasm and positivity to the day! 🙌 #autism #autismInclusion #autisticAdults #LawnBowls #AutisticAdultSupport Christine Edwards Thomas Broadley Luke Johnston

On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (25 Nov), we’re sharing an important article by writer and survivor–advocate Jas Rawlinson. The piece highlights the confronting reality that many Autistic women and girls face a higher risk of sexual violence - and the practical steps that can help change this. In the article, Dr Vicki Gibbs, Head of Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice - ARCAP, offers guidance on how tailored education, stronger support networks, and straightforward approaches to teaching consent can make a meaningful difference for Autistic women and girls. The article also outlines practical steps families, schools and communities can use so young people feel more confident recognising unsafe situations and advocating for themselves. A must-read! ⬇ https://lnkd.in/gFPpQ9T5

✨🎓#ThrowBack to our September ALIC Learning Fair, where we proudly hosted our school leaders, teachers, Aspect community and education community beyond Aspect to explore how ALIC continues to strengthen our culture of collective responsibility and evidence-informed practice for Autistic learners. 🏫Across the program, Dr Lyn Sharratt, our critical friend, supported our schools to deepen understanding of Systemness by keeping students’ faces at the centre of their decision making and 14 parameters that bring clarity and shared direction in school improvement. The day was a celebration of lots of achievements ALIC have made in just three years, where leaders from our 10 Aspect schools showcased the impact of the ALIC journey, and the strong collaboration that has developed across our schools. 📊Survey results told us that the ALIC program has significantly enhanced staff understanding of evidence-based high-impact instructional practices, and their stronger capability in making data visible and accessible for whole group data conversations. 📝As we plan for 2026, these learnings provide us a strong foundation for continuing school improvement and carrying this momentum forward to increase student outcomes and engagement in learning for both students and staff. Thank you to all presenters, participants and guests who contributed to this inspiring event. 🙏❤️ #AspectEducation #AutismEducation #ProfessionalLearning #ALIC #Education #LearningFair #LynSharratt #CLARITY #systemleadership #collaboration #CollectiveEfficacy Karilyn Gumley, Brid Corrigan, Meghan Williams, Anna Brady, Michelle Zikmundovsky, Shane Morris, Katie Fleet, Mark Rudd, Talia Morgan, Kathryn Stuart, Kate McLaren, Laura Guille, Rowena Perritt, Joanne Tisdell, Kaye Perry, Craig McNee, Maryanne Gosling, Lyn Sharratt, Yena Joo, Lauren Phillips

We are grateful to Tina Ayyad, Member for Holsworthy, for recognising Aspect and our commitment to creating engaging, accessible learning environments for Autistic students. We are honoured to receive this beautiful certificate acknowledging the $20,000 Interactive project at Aspect South East Sydney School in Menai, funded through the NSW Government Community Building Partnerships Program for 2025. With four new interactive smartboards, the school is strengthening its use of technology to support visually rich and interactive learning. These resources help build student confidence, communication, and engagement, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive in a way that works for them. #Aspect #AspectEducation #AspectSchools #InclusiveEducation #Technology #Partnerships

As the number of autism diagnoses increases in Australia, so does the pressure on families to find the right supports. But not all therapies are created equal. Recent reporting shows the risks of non-evidence-based treatments and the potential costs of delay. 💔 That’s why understanding which approaches are backed by evidence is essential. With nearly 60 years of experience, Aspect’s approach is grounded in research, shaped by each person and their support network, and adapted to their unique needs. As advised by the Australian Medical Association, seek guidance from a trusted professional (eg. GP, pediatrician). #autism #neurodiversity #EvidenceBasedPractice #AutismTherapy https://lnkd.in/gbC-Zxcs

Huge congratulations to Grace Tame and Ben Strum on receiving the Judges’ Choice Award for Where the World is Quiet at the 2025 Focus on Ability Short Film Festival! 🎬✨ Commissioned by Aspect through Philanthropic funders, 'Where the World is Quiet' explores her deep connection with running - how it enhances her emotional well-being, provides clarity, and helps nurture the relationships that are such an important part of her life. We’re incredibly proud to have been part of this meaningful project, and we’re thrilled to see the team recognised for their work! 👏 Shahar Burla (PhD) - Olivia Shah #autisticVoices #autism #FocusOnAbility #autismAwareness #autismUnderstanding

Congratulations to Dr. Abbey Love from the Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice - ARCAP and her advisory team for receiving the 2025 Autism CRC Award for Achievement in Autism Research (Translation of Autism Research). ✨ Their work on the Autistic Pregnancy and Parenthood Hub has turned co-produced research into accessible, evidence-informed resources supporting Autistic people during pregnancy, birth and early parenthood. Full story 👉 https://lnkd.in/gwDFxQMG #autism #AutismResearch #InclusivePractice #ARCAP #ResearchToPractice #Neurodiversity #AutismSupport #AwardRecognition

In case you missed it - our newest episode of 'A Different Brilliant' is now live, featuring Madeleine Jaine Lobsey in conversation with Sandee Facy (Hidden Disabilities Sunflower - Australia & New Zealand) and Matthew Oastler (Aspect Autism Friendly) They explore how the collaboration between the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower 🌻 and Aspect Autism Friendly continues to support organisations and community spaces to design environments that consider a wide range of needs. 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred platform - the episode is available now. #HiddenDisabilities #autism #autismFriendly #SensoryFriendly