Studies show that individuals with autism are underrepresented in the Australian workforce. The Federal Government’s new National Autism Strategy aims to change that. It is hoped the initiative will help address the underrepresentation of Autistic individuals in the labour market.
At present, autistic people are six times more likely to be unemployed than those without a disability.
Many autistic individuals face barriers to education, which affects their employment prospects. Only 5 per cent of people with autism have a Bachelor’s degree or higher. However, research indicates that when provided with the right support, autistic individuals can make an invaluable contribution to the workplace.
So what is causing poor employment outcomes for those with autism and what can be done about it?
What causes poor employment outcomes for those with autism?
Austistic individuals face several barriers which can affect their employment prospects. These include:
Communication & Social Interaction
Some autistic people may have difficulty communicating their thoughts and feelings. They may also have difficulty interpreting body language. This can make expressing themselves in situations such as job interviews challenging.
Autistic individuals face high rates of employer-initiated terminations, often driven by interpersonal and social challenges rather than job characteristics.
Rigid application and interview processes
Application and interview processes are often rigid and some autistic individuals may find these difficult to navigate.
Stereotypes
Misconceptions about autism in the workplace can be harder to overcome than the condition itself. Some employers worry that autistic people will require extra training or accommodations. Unfortunately, many autistic individuals experience bullying and poor working conditions.
The decision to disclose autism during a job interview is also challenging. While disclosure can sometimes lead to positive outcomes, it can also have negative consequences, depending on the employer’s attitude.
Missing the full potential
Current unemployment rates among autistic individuals mean Australia is missing out on the skills and talents autistic individuals can bring to the workplace.
Research indicates that decreasing the unemployment rate for individuals with autism by 33 per cent would increase the Australian Gross Domestic Product by $43 billion.
Autistic individuals often bring unique qualities to the workplace, such as:
• Intense concentration and focus, known as “hyperfocus,” which can enhance productivity.
• Innovative thinking, with different ways of analysing problems and developing solutions.
• Loyalty to workplaces and colleagues.
• Diverse skill sets, interests, and areas of expertise that can complement team efforts.
How the National Autism Strategy can help
Last week the Federal Government unveiled a new National Autism Strategy, which was developed in consultation with the autism community. One of the key aims of this strategy is to improve the participation of autistic individuals in the workplace. The government has committed $42.1 million to facilitate the first stage of the strategy.
Included in the initial funding is $915,000 to support community awareness initiatives. It is hoped that this will help to clear up common misconceptions about autistic people.There will also be a new peer support program to provide autistic individuals with advice from those with lived experience.
What else can be done?
Flexibility in the workplace is key to allowing autistic people to thrive in the workplace. Flexible working arrangements should be offered wherever possible. Studies have shown these have provided the most benefit to those with autism. Recruitment processes should also be modified when possible.
Autistic people have much to offer our workplaces. They just need to be given the same opportunities as everyone else.
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Article References
Galguly, R (11 April 2024) ‘Discrimination against Australians with autism causes employment inequalities’, Charles Sturt University, accessed 21 January 2025.
MI Training (n.d) ‘The Benefits of Neurodiversity: How Different Minds Contribute to Innovation’, MI Training, accessed 21 January 2025.
Young, E & Campanella, N (13 January 2024) ‘Australia now has a national autism strategy. Here’s what’s in it and why it’s needed’, ABC News, accessed 21 January 2025.