Impact stories
We make measurable, demonstrable and beneficial change occurring beyond our research. The following impact stories will detail our research's substantial and positive changes to the Autistic and autism communities.
AUTHENTICITY IN THE CLASSROOM: THE IMPACT OF SUPPORTING AUTISTIC LEADERSHIP
Autistic scholars like Bek Carter are transforming higher education through authentic leadership, inclusive teaching, and neurodiversity-affirming practices.
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TRANSFORMING SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR AUTISTIC PEOPLE
Co-designed with Autistic people, these world-first, neurodiversity-affirming suicide prevention tools and training are transforming inclusive mental health care.
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OUR ROLE IN AUSTRALIA’S NATIONAL ROADMAP
We played an important role in shaping Australia’s National Roadmap to deliver autism-informed, inclusive health and mental health care.
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OUR ROLE IN AUSTRALIA’S FIRST NATIONAL AUTISM STRATEGY
Our research helped shape Australia’s first National Autism Strategy, driving inclusive, research-based policy reform.
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HOPE AS MOTIVATION FOR CLIMATE ACTION IN POLICY
Hope, especially in the face of long odds, has been shown to drive meaningful support for climate action, shaping new policies that prioritise mental health and resilience.
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TRANSFORMING RECRUITMENT THROUGH NEUROINCLUSIVE PRACTICES
We are transforming our recruitment practices by breaking down barriers that exclude Autistic and other neurodivergent talent. Our neuroinclusive approach creates a fairer, more supportive workplace.
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EARLY AUTISM IDENTIFICATION TRAINING IN AOTEAROA/NEW ZEALAND
Aotearoa’s largest rollout of the world-leading SACS tool is transforming early autism identification by training hundreds of professionals to deliver culturally responsive, life-changing support.
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GYM-SPARC: IMPROVING GYM ACCESSIBILITY FOR YOUNG ADULTS WITH DISABILITY – GYM-SPARC
The GYM-SPARC project is breaking down barriers to gym participation for young adults with disability by equipping fitness professionals with practical, inclusive support strategies.
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SUPPORTING NEURODIVERGENT YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM
Findings from the landmark Lancet Commission on Autism are shaping UK policy, providing evidence for more integrated and equitable support for neurodivergent children and young people.
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INFORMING CLINICAL DIAGNOSTIC GUIDELINES IN AOTEAROA/NEW ZEALAND
Our research on developmental disabilities in migrant and Indigenous children has directly shaped New Zealand’s national FASD diagnostic guidelines.
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INFORMING THE FINNISH MEDICAL SOCIETY CURRENT CARE GUIDELINES FOR AUTISM
Research is shaping more informed, individualised, and inclusive care for children with developmental disabilities.
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AUTISM IDENTIFICATION INCLUSION IN AUSTRALIAN POLICY AND GUIDELINES
The SACS tool, now embedded in major Australian health policies and guidelines, is transforming early autism identification and fostering faster access to vital support.
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THE VICTORIAN EARLY ASSESSMENT CLINIC (VEAC)
The Victorian Early Assessment Clinic is transforming autism diagnosis by providing timely, affordable, neurodiversity-affirming assessments for young children.
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SUICIDE RESPONSE PROJECT - RESOURCES FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION
The Suicide Response Project, co-designed with Autistic and LGBTQIA+ communities, delivers accessible, lived-experience-led resources to challenge stigma and save lives.
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ASDetect - EARLY IDENTIFICATION OF AUTISM IN THE HANDS OF PARENTS
ASDetect is a free, scientifically validated mobile app that helps parents identify early signs of autism through video-guided assessments, improving access to timely diagnosis worldwide.
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FitSkills - IMPROVING GYM ACCESS FOR YOUTH WITH DISABILITY
DSV FitSkills is an inclusive, community-based gym program that empowers young people with Down syndrome through fitness, friendship, and tailored support.
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INCLUSIVE CARE SYSTEMS AND POLICY GUIDANCE
Children with developmental disabilities face systemic barriers, but recent global research and advocacy highlight inclusive, strengths-based approaches to transform care and policy.
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SERBIAN AUTISM GUIDELINES HIGHLIGHT IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT
Evidence-based research is guiding Serbia’s national autism screening guidelines, emphasising the need for specialised transition planning to improve employment outcomes for Autistic adults.
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IMPROVING INSOMNIA SYMPTOMS FOR AUTISTIC ADULTS
Co-developed with Autistic adults, the SLEAPI program shows promising results in improving sleep and reducing anxiety through a supportive, tailored therapeutic approach.
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All of our impact stories are accessible on our blog and regularly appear in our newsletter.