Co-design consultation services for the National Roadmap to Improve the Health and Mental Health of Autistic People

In 2023, the Australian Government began development of a National Roadmap to Improve the Health and Mental Health of Autistic People. In support of this, Autism CRC conducted a process of co-design, research, and community engagement with its national partner network from November 2023 to February 2024. This involved conversations with almost 200 stakeholders, including autistic people from diverse backgrounds and varying abilities, as well as families, carers, health and mental health practitioners. 

To gain broader insights into the needs and experiences of the autistic community, a team of researchers from Griffith University reviewed health related information from almost 5,000 autistic people, families, carers and professionals. This included queries from the national helpline, Autism Connect, and information from several national data sets on health care experiences, needs and priorities. 

The resulting landmark report to support the Roadmap was delivered to the Department of Health and Aged Care in March 2024.