Suspected Autism for children in Queensland

The signs of autism fall into two broad areas: difficulty with social interaction and communication, and limited or repeated behaviours and interests. In young children, signs may include not pointing or showing you things, delayed speech, avoiding eye contact, and being upset by changes in routine. Some children react strongly to loud sounds or crowded places. There may be different signs at different ages.

Not always. The Royal Children's Hospital says not all children with these signs are autistic. There is no single test for autism, so a doctor or specialist follows an assessment process to understand your child's strengths and challenges. The national guideline says it is common for an assessment that considers autism not to end in an autism diagnosis.

The signs usually start in infancy, but they may not be noticeable until a child is 18 months or older. The national guideline says the behaviours are often present before age 3, but may not be recognised until the school years or later, as social and thinking demands increase. If you think your child has autism, see your doctor or a child health nurse.

Start with your child's GP or a child health nurse. The Royal Children's Hospital says a GP can refer you to a health professional with special training who can assess your child, such as a paediatrician, child psychologist or child psychiatrist.

The national autism guideline says accessing support can, and should, happen at any time it is needed. It says the practitioners you work with should refer your family for the support needed as soon as you or they see a need. You can ask for a referral for support at any stage of the assessment process.