Campaign to improve public awareness of autism

Michael Theo, an autistic actor and autism consultant at Aspect, has experienced first-hand a lack of understanding of autism. Photo: ASPECT

ASPECT (Autism Spectrum Australia) has marked World Autism Understanding Day with the start of its new campaign to enhance the public’s understanding of autism and provide practical guidance on how Australians can better support people on the autism spectrum.

New research, conducted by YouGov among more than 1,000 Australians, revealed only 50 per cent of Australians believe they have a good understanding of autism and a further 45 per cent admitted to having only a limited understanding.

The findings also highlighted many Australians were unsure how to respond when someone discloses they are autistic. One third of Australians said they would not know what to say.

Similarly, only 59 per cent of Australians feel confident in knowing how to support people on the autism spectrum, leaving two in five people uncertain about how to offer meaningful assistance.

Aspect chief executive officer Jacqui Borland said the survey results highlighted a significant gap in autism understanding and reinforced the importance of equipping people with the right knowledge and confidence to interact supportively with autistic individuals.

“We estimate that at least one in 40 Australians have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum, so it is a part of everyday life for many Australians – whether it’s a family member, a friend, a colleague or a customer.

“While awareness of autism has grown over the years, true understanding remains a challenge. Every person who takes the time to learn more about autism and how to offer meaningful support brings us one step closer to a society that embraces genuine inclusion.”

Aspect’s campaign focuses on practical, everyday actions that can help create a more inclusive society. This includes simple changes in language, recognising individual needs and adopting an open and respectful approach when engaging with Autistic people.

Michael Theo, an autistic actor and autism consultant at Aspect, said he had experienced first-hand a lack of understanding of autism.