Focus Area 5: Participation in the community

We want a truly inclusive South Australia where Autistic people can meaningfully participate, without restriction, in the community.

Although general community awareness of autism is very high, community understanding, and attitudes can be significant barriers to Autistic people’s inclusion in social and economic life.

The broader community must be challenged in their understanding of autism – how it is a natural and ordinary part of human diversity, and how Autistic people can (and do) live full lives with interests, desires and dreams just like any other person. This also includes a recognition of the diverse communication styles of Autistic people and to building community knowledge and understanding of Autistic qualities.

Understanding the needs of, and challenges faced by, Autistic people is critical to ensuring appropriate inclusive policies and practices that support an autism-inclusive society. This includes Autistic LGBTIQA+ people and Autistic Aboriginal people who often experience significant overlapping disadvantage and discrimination.

In addition, the opportunity for Autistic people to independently interact with the built environment relies on greater community understanding and awareness about autism, and the negative effect overwhelming environments can have on Autistic experiences.

The implementation of sensory rooms and quiet spaces, for both young Autistic people and Autistic adults, can go far to reducing sensory overload, de-escalate and regulate sensory input and support greater accessibility.

Research has emphasised how the altered perception of sensory stimuli and processing of information coming from the environment can be a significant issue experienced by Autistic people. This includes adverse responses to specific sounds or textures, temperatures, smells or lighting, and distress at changes to routine, locations, travel and interior design of the built environment.

Meaningful community, leisure and recreational participation can also have significant benefits to the physical and mental health of Autistic people of all ages. This is especially important to ensure reduced social and physical isolation and to foster a greater sense of belonging and self-worth.

The Autistic and autism communities must have greater choice and control in our community. This includes a stronger understanding of what a ‘safe space’ or ‘safe environment’ means and how our built and open environments and the public transport system can either support or inhibit Autistic people from actively participating in our community.

“We want to be part of the community. We want to be allowed to go to any cinema sessions, any restaurants, not need our own dinners or nights or sessions. That’s not inclusive, full acceptance is freedom.” — Consultation participant

The Autistic and autism communities highlighted:

• The importance of recognising the diversity of Autistic experiences, including strengths and support needs.
• Supports and services that promote participation are critical to ensuring Autistic people can live their lives to the fullest.
• The need for sensory-friendly spaces and quiet spaces, as well as the overall accessibility of community venues.

Our commitments:

• Consider how the built environment may impact Autistic people and identify opportunities for improvement across current and future infrastructure projects.
• Identify ways to improve accessible transport options and the accessibility of public spaces and venues, including signage and wayfinding tools.
• Partner with organisations, sporting clubs, local councils and community services to support inclusive initiatives for Autistic people of all ages.