How to apply
Applications for the Autistic Identity and Connection Program are now open. Applications close 11.59pm Sunday 13 October 2024.
You can also apply for the Program by post or email. Contact Hayley by emailing hclapham@autismcrc.com.au to ask for a copy of the application form. This can be returned via post or email.
If you’d like to read more information about the Program before applying, you can read the applicant information pack.
Important things to know
- Applications close on 11:59pm Sunday 13 October 2024
- You will get a email confirming that we’ve received your application within 3 business days
- After the closing date, all applications will be considered by a selection panel (which will be at least 50% autistic)
- Some applicants for the face-to-face version of the Program will be asked to have a structured, friendly ‘check-in’ as a second step in the application process. You can find out more about the ‘check-in’ in the applicant information pack.
- You will find out if you have been offered a place in the Program by 11 November 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below you can find answers to some of the questions you may have. You can also read the applicant information pack to see if the answer to your question is there.
If you have a question that isn’t answered in the FAQs below or in the Information Pack, please contact Hayley at hclapham@autismcrc.com.au.
You do not need to be formally diagnosed to apply. We accept applications from anyone who identifies as autistic.
No, you can’t submit an application on someone else’s behalf.
However, you are welcome to tell someone you think they should apply. You can also help them with their application if they want you to.
You are welcome to get a friend, support person or family member to help you complete your application.
Examples of ways people might help are by filming or interviewing you, or helping you to write your responses.
This Program is funded by the Department of Social Services to be delivered to autistic adults in select areas of Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and Northern Territory.
To check your area’s eligibility, you can use the postcode checker.
We hope to be able to provide the Autistic Identity and Connection Program to other states and regions in the future. To be kept informed of future programs, and other programs offered by the Sylvia Rodger Academy, join our mailing list.
Yes, you are welcome to apply on the same basis as other applicants. This means your suitability for this Program will be assessed using the information you provide in your application. If you have previously completed the Autistic Identity and Connection Program, you cannot apply again.
If you have any accessibility needs you’d like us to consider for your application, please email Hayley at hclapham@autismcrc.com.au. If you prefer to talk over video or chat you can contact her to organise a time to discuss this.
If your application is successful and you become a Program participant, we will work with you and your accessibility needs and preferences.
There will be a friendly structured ‘check-in’ for some participants applying for the face-to-face version of the Program. For all participants, we will only ask follow up questions if something in your application is unclear.
The venue and location for the residential workshop is still being determined. It will be held in a capital city between 28 February and 3 March 2025 in Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia OR the Northern Territory.
No, however on completion you will become a graduate of the Autistic Identity and Connection Program and a member of the Sylvia Rodger Academy.
Yes. We are offering two versions of the Program – an online version and a face-to-face version. If you won’t be able to attend the workshop in person, you can apply for the online version of the Program.
Unfortunately, no. We expect to receive a lot of applications and won’t be able to give specific feedback about why an individual application was not successful.
This Program is for any autistic person who feels they would benefit from learning about autism, identity, wellbeing, and self-advocacy from an autistic perspective, and from connecting with other autistic people and community.
If you’re still not sure if you should apply, you can read the applicant information pack for more information or email Hayley at hclapham@autismcrc.com.au. If you prefer to talk over video or chat you can contact her to organise a time to discuss this.
During the Program delivery, we will follow the guidelines and public health orders issued by the Federal and relevant State or Territory Governments regarding COVID-19. If there are any changes to the Program delivery, we will keep Program participants updated.
On the application form you will be asked to tell us which version of the Program you want to apply for. If you want to apply for both, you will be able to do this and tell us your preference.
If you are applying for the online version of the Program, you will be able to select whether you would prefer to attend the sessions during the day or at night.