Alliance congratulates Aspect on $19M funding to build a national social connections network for Autistic people under the National Autism Strategy.

The Alliance heartily congratulates Aspect, a valued member organisation, on receiving more than $19 million over four years to Autism Spectrum Australia (ASPECT) to create a national social connections network for Autistic people, as part of the National Autism Strategy.

Here’s an excerpt of the announcement from Senator The Hon. Jenny McAllister (Minister for the NDIS):

“The network will harness the power of lived experience to offer understanding, tailored advice and support.

ASPECT will partner with Reframing Autism (an Autistic-led organisation), other Autistic-led organisations and Autistic people to develop an Improving Social Connections Framework, and a self-service hub including tools, resources and training videos to support Autistic people to participate as facilitators.

The network will build connections and provide funding to local community groups.

These Community Partners will co-design and deliver local peer support programs and activities across Australia.

Social connection activities will provide supportive and accessible environments where Autistic people and their families and carers can connect with others and participate in community life.

Autistic people will be meaningfully employed across the project in leadership, decision-making and advisory roles.

This will embed lived experience and Autistic leadership at every stage of the program design, implementation and evaluation.

This funding is being provided under the National Autism Strategy, to support and empower Autistic people so they can thrive in all aspects of life.”

“Families and carers will also benefit, with peer supports designed to help them thrive in their caring roles and allow them to share their experiences with others.”

To learn more about Aspect, click on this link.