Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect)

Discover the new Aspect Hills Shire School web page! Immerse yourself in a special video message from our Principal Shane Morris, a captivating 3D walkthrough, and stunning 3D renders of what our beautiful campus and facilities will look like ✨. Explore the vision for our new campus set to open in January 2025! 👉 https://lnkd.in/gkXjG4f9 #AspectEducation #autism #SpecialEducation #AutismEducation #HillsShire

It's Speech Pathology Week! Aspect therapist, Marlene Eksteen, spoke to Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) journalist Victoria Ellis about developmental milestones and the importance of structured social settings in fostering communication skills for Autistic children. Have a read 👉https://lnkd.in/g-fPJE7z Girl Guides Australia #SPWeek2024 #SpeechPathology #autism

The Assembly has been praised by the community for its authentic portrayal of Autistic students, its emotional depth, and its focus on the strengths and capabilities of the students. In her article for The Conversation Australia + NZ, Sandra Thom-Jones, an Autistic academic at the University of Wollongong, captures how the show demonstrates the students’ ability to ask insightful questions, engage deeply, and showcase their talents, breaking down stereotypes along the way.   What stands out for Sandra is: 1️⃣ A culture of inclusivity where students are encouraged to be themselves. 2️⃣ A sensory-friendly environment that meets their needs. 3️⃣ A supportive community that celebrates each other’s successes. 4️⃣ An empathetic mentorship from journalist Leigh Sales.   Having supported the cast and crew alongside autism consultant @Emma Beardsley, Aspect Practice Executive Manager Tom Tutton said "We hope The Assembly demonstrates that with Aspect’s high quality autism friendly accommodations and supports, educational and workplace environments can be genuinely inclusive and successful"   Well done to our Aspect Autism Friendly team for their work on The Assembly project with Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and HELIUM®, but also Macquarie University and Bus Stop Films. https://lnkd.in/g2Mt2H8M #TheAssemblyAU #autismSupport #journalism #inclusiveMedia #partnerships #autismFriendly #AspectAutismFriendly

“I knew in my heart that my daughter was Autistic by 18-months old, but what first clued me in was not what most people think of as indicators of autism,” recalls Ainslie in our latest blog post - https://lnkd.in/gqf2JHpi Ainslie’s story is not uncommon. That’s why the Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice - ARCAP is conducting a study to find out whether differences in the characteristics and behaviours of Autistic boys and girls in their very early years might contribute to missed or late #diagnosis of #autism. This study is closing soon. Can you help? We are seeking input from parents/caregivers of Australian children/youth aged 12 to 25 who were diagnosed with autism at age 12 or older. We would especially like to hear from more parents of Autistic males. Please consider sharing your experiences to inform diagnostic criteria and enhance support services for all children: https://lnkd.in/gtkFbMuj #AutismResearch #AutismDiagnosis #LateDiagnosedAutism #GenderDifferences

Have you watched The Assembly yet? Episode 1 aired last night, and all episodes are now available on ABC iView! 💻   The students all undertook a journalism course adapted to be autism-friendly through Macquarie University with the support of Aspect Autism Friendly team, which is the first of its kind in Australia. We are proud to have provided a comprehensive framework of support, including visual stories, well-structured learning sessions, sensory environment adaptations, and daily support to help these young journalists shine. Read the full story here 👉 https://lnkd.in/gCgvhBet Tom Tutton #TheAssemblyAU #journalism #Autism #AutismFriendly #AspectAutismFriendly #InclusiveMedia

A little peek behind the scenes with our Aspect Autism Friendly team and Sydney Airport as we team up to create new resources for travellers! ✈️ Sydney Airport has been amazing in supporting the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and working with us on sensory maps, journey planners, and specialist staff training. These efforts help make sure everyone, including those with hidden disabilities, can feel supported across all Sydney Airport terminals. Last week’s photos and videos and some new research near completion from Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice - ARCAP will be used to develop even more great resources —stay tuned! Tom Tutton, Rebecca Street, Victoria Gill, Imogen Johnson, Mike Joyce, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower - Australia & New Zealand, Adrian Koch #Inclusion #AutismFriendly #Travel #AutismFriendly #HiddenDisabilities

We were thrilled to host a special pre-screening of The Assembly, the groundbreaking Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) show that follows a group of Autistic students as they embark on a powerful journey into journalism, breaking barriers and sharing their authentic voices with the world.   The night was filled with an incredible mix of emotions—plenty of laughs and more than a few tears, especially while watching the first episode featuring the wonderful Sam Neill. People have called it raw, real, honest, funny, authentic, joyful, and heart-wrenching, and we couldn't agree more!   The evening began with an opening address from Tom Tutton (Aspect Autism Friendly), Jacqui Borland (Aspect CEO), and Melissa Maclean (Executive Producer & Director at HELIUM®), followed by the screening of episode one.    We then enjoyed a lively and fun Q&A session with cast members @Angus Hamil and Bethany Woodman, facilitated by Tom Tutton. The night wrapped up with some networking and photo opportunities with the cast and the much-loved Australian actor Michael Theo.   We are incredibly proud to be part of this adventure and beyond excited for you to discover this inspiring group of journalism students, trained by Macquarie University and supported by our very own Aspect Autism Friendly team. The Assembly premieres on Tuesday, 20 August on ABC TV and ABC iview, it is not to be missed! #TheAssemblyAU #InclusiveEmployment #inclusiveMedia #DiversityAndInclusion #AutismFriendly #journalism @Emma Beardsley  @Leigh Sales Bus Stop Films most photos: Adrian Koch

Loneliness is a growing concern that affects many Australians, including those in the #Autistic community. At Aspect, Dr Vicki Gibbs and our Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice - ARCAP have been exploring how #loneliness impacts mental health and well-being. Our findings highlight the importance of building connections and support networks. 👉 SBS Article: https://lnkd.in/g-pAnrEc 👉 Aspect Loneliness Research: https://lnkd.in/gtXdVhCe #ARCAP #AspectResearch #MentalHealth #CommunitySupport

With a new logo, a shortened 'Aspect' brand name, vibrant colours, and fresh thematic elements, Aspect's brand refresh last March was not merely cosmetic! Our Marketing team, led by Chief Marketing Officer Robyn Eicker, was thrilled to collaborate with ET Collective, a fantastic studio of creative minds 🙌 👉 Check out their website to see their amazing work on the Aspect brand! https://lnkd.in/gWx5E7gD. Special thanks to our amazing Client Service Director Jacqueline Watson for her support throughout the journey and the amazing design team - Elza Avery and Kelly Weber!

Friendships can be challenging, especially for Autistic individuals who may navigate social interactions differently. In our latest episode of 'a different brilliant' podcast, Madeleine Jaine Lobsey (Wondiverse) sits down with the inspiring Michael Theo—an Autistic consultant for Aspect, ambassador for Wable, and star of "Love on the Spectrum" and Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)'s "Austin." This loneliness awareness week (5-11 Aug), Michael opens up about his personal journey with #friendship, sharing the ups and downs of making connections and how he’s learned to embrace and value friendships over time. His insights are both heartwarming and practical, offering advice that resonates with anyone who has ever felt unsure about social interactions. Whether you’re a parent seeking to better support your child, or a young autistic adult looking for relatable advice, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement. Michael’s message is clear: true friendships are built on mutual respect, loyalty, and quality time. Tune in to hear Michael’s thoughts on why it’s important to let friendships grow naturally, how to start meaningful conversations, and why it’s okay to end toxic relationships. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who values authentic connections. 🎧 Listen now on your favourite podcast app. 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gbQ9AURp #ADifferentBrilliant #AutismCommunity #Podcast #SupportiveConnections #parenting #LonelinessAwarenessWeekAUS