Beginning this month, a groundbreaking initiative is launching to offer autism assessments to South Australians at risk. With funding totalling approximately $800,000 until June 2026, this initiative aims to provide a complimentary assessment and diagnostic service tailored for young individuals with unique needs. It targets those residing in vulnerable households or involved with the youth justice system. This marks the inaugural dedicated service of its kind in South Australia.
Through a rigorous selection process, the Department of Human Services has identified Autism SA, Solasta Wellbeing, and Connect Disability Services as the partners to deliver this crucial service. Upon confirmation of a diagnosis, these organisations will collaborate with the department to facilitate appropriate referrals and support services, potentially including access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme. Recognising the significance of early identification in navigating neurological developmental differences, this initiative seeks to foster a sense of belonging and identity while ensuring effective support systems are accessible.
“Our work to support the Autism and Autistic communities includes more help with assessment and diagnosis, appointing Australia’s first Assistant Minister for Autism, establishing the Office for Autism and rolling out Autism Inclusion Teachers in public schools,” Nat Cook, Minister for Human Services said.
“This new service means we are targeting public support to young people who need it most and will benefit the greatest benefits from faster assessments. These include young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, who may have complex needs or risk factors, or face barriers to accessing appropriate supports.
“Not only does a diagnosis provide someone with greater clarity for the way they experience and respond to life, it also means government can better address their specific needs and help link them to supports and services.
“Everybody benefits when our community is more inclusive, understands each other’s circumstances and people get access to supports that meet their needs.”
For individuals not diagnosed, a comprehensive report detailing this outcome along with recommendations for further exploration will be provided. The service will be available statewide, ensuring accessibility for residents in Adelaide as well as rural and regional areas.
This initiative complements a recent announcement of a separate $330,000 tender aimed at supporting students at risk of disengaging from education. Designed with the flexibility to operate within school premises, this program underscores the commitment to addressing diverse needs within the community.
“The need to improve access to an autism assessment and diagnosis has been made clear by the community through the development of the state’s first Autism Strategy,” Emily Bourke, Assistant Minister for Autism said.
“For many Autistic South Australians, receiving a diagnosis is an important step in not only finding effective supports, but also in finding a greater sense of belonging and identity.
“This new program run by the Department of Human Services will help streamline this process for some of the state’s most at risk by removing barriers like costs and waitlists and builds on the Malinauskas Labor Government’s recent announcement of providing autism assessments on school sites.
“This World Autism Month we have much to celebrate here in SA in becoming a world leader for autism inclusion.”
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