SUICIDE PREVENTION FOR AUTISM NEUROAFFIRMING TOOLKIT

Developed at La Trobe’s Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, the SPAN (Suicide Prevention for Autism Neuroaffirming) Toolkit was funded by Suicide Prevention Australia, and co-developed with Autistic people in partnership with Amaze, Aspect, Different Journeys, Yellow Ladybugs, Roses in the Ocean, Barwon Health and Monash Health. Rates of suicide and suicidal ideation are significantly higher among Autistic individuals than the general population. The SPAN toolkit is an evidence-based online resource supporting healthcare professionals to identify and manage suicidal thoughts and behaviour among Autistic adults. It includes autism-specific suicide risk assessment templates, training materials, demonstration videos and advice on developing safety plans with Autistic clients as well as policy briefing to assist healthcare leadership with organisational or system-wide advocacy.

Since launching in February 2026, the toolkit has received more than 14,000 visits, with resources incorporated into training packages at national organisations such as the Black Dog Institute, MHPOD and GP Mental Health Standards Collaboration. Paul Edbrooke, Victorian Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, has commended the toolkit, commenting that ‘It strengthens the ability of our workforce and their capacity to help people… It equips our mental health professionals with everything they need and the expertise to provide that appropriate support.’ Internationally, Suicide Prevention Scotland, the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center (USA), and George Mason University (USA) have also added the toolkit to their resource libraries.

Published in August 2026.