About Us

Established in 2008 with the incredible generosity of the late Mrs Olga Tennison AO, OTARC is Australia's first Centre dedicated to autism research. It provides a platform for collaborative research activities and research-to-practice initiatives, including evidence-based support programs, training opportunities, and partnerships with multiple stakeholders and collaborators in Australia and overseas.

Our research aims to support Autistic people and their families to actively participate in their community, education, and employment, find enjoyment in life, and make meaningful contributions based on their goals.

With a focus across the lifespan, research at OTARC encompasses four research program areas: Identification and Diagnosis, Supports and Practices for Daily Living, Educational and Vocational Engagement, and Health and Wellbeing. We have a strong focus on research translation through the development of evidence-based tools and collaborate with other autism research centres and institutes both in Australia and internationally.