Language and terminology

The department acknowledges that language is an important factor in identity and a personal preference, where different languages and terminology exist within the neurodivergent community.

Every Autistic person is an individual with unique qualities, strengths and needs.

Feedback provided throughout the consultation process highlighted that many Autistic people prefer identity-first language. Based on feedback during consultation, and for the purposes of this plan, we use identity-first language (i.e. Autistic person) rather than person-first language (i.e. person with autism).

The term Aboriginal has been used throughout this document to reference all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The department acknowledges and respects this preference of the South Australian Aboriginal community in written and spoken language.