Extending outreach to disadvantaged communities
We are extending the reach of the Autism CRC Education Research Program activities and outputs through the Commonwealth Positive Partnerships program. This will ensure that students on the autism spectrum can access evidence-based tools and interventions wherever they live in Australia.
Positive Partnerships is a national program aimed at improving the educational outcomes for school-aged students on the spectrum, delivered by Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) on behalf of the Commonwealth Department of Education and Training. The new partnership expands the working relationship for Autism CRC with Aspect, a founding participant in the CRC.
In announcing the partnership, Autism CRC CEO, Mr Andrew Davis, said it will further provide for the use of evidence-based programs and practice for students in schools across Australia.
“Through the Cooperative Research Centres Programme, Autism CRC has developed Australia’s first, national research effort in partnership with all school systems and set within the real-life context of inclusive school environments,” said Mr Davis.
“With a focus on Indigenous and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities along with rural and remote regions, working with the Positive Partnerships program will facilitate the broader dissemination and implementation of best practice outputs in supporting students with diverse educational needs.”
Positive Partnerships National Director, Jacqui Borland said the team is looking forward to working with Autism CRC.
“Drawing on the emerging findings from the range of projects underway in the Autism CRC Education Research Program will ensure that resources for school staff and parents and carers continue to reflect best practice approaches to supporting children on the autism spectrum,” said Jacqui.
Autism CRC is the world’s first national research effort focused on autism across the lifespan, working together with the autism community to provide the evidence base to support individuals on the spectrum throughout their lives. This large scale research effort will provide earlier access to tailored intervention; develop tools and programs for enhanced academic and social outcomes through the school years; and promote employment, health and wellbeing in adult life.