Autism is a lifelong difference in how a person’s brain develops. It shapes how someone communicates and connects with others, how they take in the world through their senses, and what they focus on. Autistic people often have deep interests, strong attention to detail and honest, direct ways of relating.
Like ADHD, autism is now understood through a neurodiversity-affirming lens. Rather than labels like “high” or “low” functioning, the focus is on each person’s strengths and the support they actually need. Australia’s National Autism Strategy takes the same view.
Signs that might prompt a conversation
Every autistic person is different, but common signs include:
- differences in eye contact, gestures or back-and-forth conversation
- finding friendships or group settings tiring or confusing
- strong preferences for routine, and distress when plans change
- intense, focused interests
- being very sensitive, or not very sensitive, to noise, light, touch, taste or smell
- in young children, slower speech or not responding to their name.
Girls, women and many adults are often missed. They may learn to “mask”, copying others to fit in, which can be exhausting. Many adults now seek a diagnosis for the first time, and for them it is often less about treatment and more about understanding themselves.
Autism and ADHD often occur together. If ADHD is part of the picture, see our ADHD page.
How diagnosis works in Australia
Diagnosis follows the National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism. It is usually a team effort, which may include:
- a paediatrician or psychiatrist, to look at medical and developmental history and rule out other causes
- a psychologist, to understand thinking, learning and behaviour
- a speech pathologist and occupational therapist, to look at communication and sensory needs.
The assessment looks at how a person manages day to day at home, school or work, not only at a list of traits.
How we can help
Your GP is a good first step. We can:
- listen to your concerns and look at the whole picture, including hearing, development and other health issues
- refer you to a paediatrician, psychiatrist or psychologist for assessment
- help you understand what Medicare and the NDIS may cover
- coordinate care with therapists and schools after a diagnosis
- look after physical and mental health over the long term, including anxiety, sleep and family wellbeing.
Helpful resources
- Autism CRC: Australia’s independent autism research centre, with practical guides for families, schools and employers.
- Autism Awareness Australia: guides to the NDIS, schools and life after diagnosis.
- Amaze: information, advocacy and a national helpline, Autism Connect.
- Positive Partnerships: government-funded help for autistic students and their families at school.
- Thriving Kids: the national program of supports for young children with developmental delay and autism. Ask your GP how it applies to your child.
- Healthdirect: plain-English information.