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Working with Autism

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Caley who is autistic smiles after finding a job in Woolworths

We understand everyone is different

That's why our teams focus on giving you tailored support to achieve the goals, or find employment that's right for you, regardless of your disability, injury, or health condition.

If you, or someone you know, lives with Autism and wants to know more about finding a fulfilling job, we’re here to help.

Last year we supported 2,289 Autistic people to prepare for, find or stay in a job through Disability Employment Services (DES).

If you’re living with a disability, such as Autism, and you're eligible for DES, we're here to help you identify and work towards your employment goals, including finding a job you love.

Get in touch on 1800 276 276 or register with APM to start your journey.

Register now

2,289 people with Autism or Asperger's were supported by APM last year

Caley's story

Living with autism and cerebral palsy, Caley knows the challenges of finding a job.

DES participant Caley smiles sitting indoors at a dining table
Alexander's story

Alexander's lived experience of disability made him the ideal person for this job.

DES participant Alexander smiles from the drivers seat
Jarryd's story

For Jarryd, Autism is not a barrier when it comes to finding a good job.

DES participant Jarryd smiles standing next to a stack of shredded paper
See more stories

Autism and employment

In Australia, approximately one 1 in 40 Australians live with autism. That’s around 675,000 people.

This estimate from Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) in 2024 is a significant increase from previous estimates of 1 in 70, and is partly due to better awareness and diagnostic practices.

Increased recognition among previously under-diagnosed groups, such as women and older adults is also a reason why the number of Autistic people has risen.

When it comes to Autistic people in work, Aspect also estimate, only 38% participate in the labour force.

This is compared to to 53% of all working-age people with disability and 84% of people without disability.

1 in 40

Australians are estimated to live with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

38%

of Autistic people are actively working, compared to to 53% of working-age people with disability and 84% of people without disability

2,289 Autistic people

were supported by APM through Disability Employment Services last year

Services and organisations for Autism in Australia 

National Autism Strategy

  • A coordinated national approach to services and supports for Autistic Australians and their families. 
  • National Autism Strategy 

Australian Advisory Board on Autism 

Autism Connect 

  • A free, national helpline providing independent and expert Autism information. 
  • Autism Connect 

Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) 

  • Provides services and support for individuals on the autism spectrum. 
  • Aspect 

 Amaze 

  • Provides information, resources, and support for people with autism and their families. 
  • Amaze 

 Autism Queensland 

  • Offers a range of services including early intervention, therapy, and education. 
  • Autism Queensland 

 Autism SA 

  • Provides services and support for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. 
  • Autism SA 

 Autism Association of Western Australia 

 Autism Tasmania 

  • Provides support, information, and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families. 
  • Autism Tasmania 

 Autism Northern Territory 

  • Offers support and services for individuals with autism and their families. 
  • Autism NT 

 Autism Asperger ACT 

  • Provides support and services for individuals with autism and their families. 
  • Autism Asperger ACT 

A note on language and Autism at APM

At APM our language style is the adoption of a person-first approach, which emphasises the individual over their disability. For example, we refer to "people with disability" rather than "disabled people," acknowledging disability is just one aspect of a person's identity.

However, we also recognise language preferences can vary among different communities and individuals. Therefore, we are mindful of using identity-first language when it is preferred, particularly in the case of Autism.

Many people within the Autism community prefer identity-focused language, such as "autistic person," as it reflects their pride and identity within the autistic community.

This is consistent with the Australian Government’s language in the National Autism Strategy. And is supported by leading Autism organisations including: Amaze, Aspect, Autism CRC, and Early Start Australia.

Through our person-first approach and sensitivity to identity-focused language, we strive to foster a culture of acceptance and understanding for all.