SA Autism Strategy
Building understanding, knowledge and belonging
The voices, goals and aspirations of South Australia’s Autistic and autism communities have been the driving force behind the development of the first SA Autism Strategy 2024–2029 (the Strategy).
The Strategy sets out a 5-year roadmap to create meaningful cultural change and greater access to services, inclusion and participation in the community for Autistic people of all ages.
Aiming to build knowledge, understanding and belonging, the Strategy supports a dedicated whole-of-government approach to respond to the current needs and challenges of Autistic people and their families, and to create a more inclusive state for all.
The Strategy will align to the new State Disability Inclusion Plan and will complement the work of the National Autism Strategy.
SA Autism Strategy Action Plan
Following the release of the Strategy, the associated SA Autism Strategy Action Plan 2025–2029 (Action Plan) is being developed in consultation with state government agencies and the Autistic and autism community. The Action Plan will outline the actions which the Government of South Australia will take to respond to the commitments highlighted within the seven focus areas of the Strategy. These focus areas are:
- Pathways to diagnosis
- Positive educational experiences
- Thriving in the workplace
- Access to supports and services
- Participation in the community
- Access to health and mental health services
- Interactions with the justice system.
The Action Plan will be a living document to ensure initiatives continue to meet the shifting needs and priorities of the Autistic and autism community.
The Department of Human Services will prepare a report on the progress of actions led by state government agencies, which will be published alongside the State Disability Inclusion Plan reports. State government agencies will report annually on actions they are leading as part of the Action Plan.
The Action Plan should be read in conjunction with the Strategy.