Why

Employment rates for Autistic adults are low compared to the general population. In Australia, only 34% of Autistic adults are in the workforce and many are in jobs below their skill level.

Challenges like communication differences, anxiety and stigma play a role. Employers may also have concerns about support needs, even though research shows hiring Autistic people benefits businesses without extra costs.

Most research studies and employment programs have focussed on large corporate and government organisations; however, nearly all businesses in Australia are small or medium sized. Our study will focus on these businesses, where there is great potential to boost inclusive employment for Autistic adults.

What helps and makes it harder for Autistic people to work in small and medium businesses?

Take part

If you are an Autistic adult working in a small or medium business or parent of an Autistic individual working in a small or medium business, we invite you to complete a short survey (approximately 10 to 15 minutes) and be interviewed (by email, phone, or Teams) so we can learn about your or your child’s employment experiences. This interview will take about 30 to 45 minutes.

<Survey link>

If you are a business owner or a staff member who hires at a small or medium business, we invite you to complete an online survey (approximately 20 minutes), regardless of your history employing Autistic staff members.

<Survey link>

Making a difference

Your insights will help us to better understand how to support Australian businesses to hire Autistic staff.

Research team

• Dr Chris Edwards: Research Fellow, ARCAP
• Dr Vicki Gibbs: Head of Research, ARCAP
• Dr Ru Ying Cai: Research Fellow, ARCAP
• Dr Abbey Love: Research Fellow, ARCAP

Funding

Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia)