What is Autism?

Autism is a complex lifelong neurological condition which affects the way a person communicates, interacts and processes information.

People with autism may have average or high intellectual abilities or they may have an intellectual disability. The level of support required by an individual with autism varies. Some people have complex needs, while autism affects other individuals in more subtle ways. Despite the challenges faced by many individuals with autism, they are the same as all people in many ways: every person has strengths, interests and potential.

Autism is no longer considered to be a low incident disability. In Australia, approximately one in every one hundred people is living with autism. This incidence rate is similar worldwide.