Autism SA was founded in 1964 by autistic individuals and their families, making it the first organisation of its kind in Australia.
Reviews for this provider are sharply divided and offer limited detail overall. The most consistent concern across multiple one-star reviews is poor communication and organisational problems — including extreme difficulty reaching staff, unanswered emails and voicemails, and last-minute cancellations that left clients without support — with one reviewer describing an 18-month autism assessment waitlist followed by near-impossible contact attempts, and another citing a missed family event due to a support worker withdrawal. The positive reviews are brief and vague, with phrases like "great support services" and "helpful team," but none provide specific detail that would help parents evaluate the quality of assessment or therapy services.
Summarised from Google reviews.
Autism SA was founded in 1964 by autistic individuals and their families, making it the first organisation of its kind in Australia. The organisation is single-minded in its focus on supporting the autism community through innovative, evidence-informed, person-centred supports, services, groups and training. Autism SA's mission is to be the first choice for individuals on the autism spectrum, supporting them to turn their potential into reality, with all supports and services delivered by qualified and experienced staff.
A multi-disciplinary evaluation that determines whether a child or adult meets the criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It usually involves observation, standardised assessments and parent or teacher interviews, resulting in a diagnostic report that opens access to therapy and NDIS supports.
A broad range of structured, evidence-based talking therapies delivered by a registered psychologist or therapist to address mental health and emotional wellbeing. Psychotherapy explores thoughts, feelings and patterns of behaviour to bring about lasting positive change.
A thorough evaluation by a psychologist using standardised tests, interviews and observation to understand a person's cognitive, emotional and behavioural functioning. Results inform diagnosis and guide recommendations for therapy, school adjustments and support services.
Assessment and treatment of communication difficulties including speech sounds, language development, stuttering, voice, and feeding and swallowing. Speech pathologists work with children and adults to help them communicate clearly and confidently.
A therapy that helps children and adults develop the everyday skills needed for daily life — from dressing, writing and play to sensory processing and school participation. Occupational therapists assess what is getting in the way and design practical strategies to build independence and confidence.
Therapeutic exercises performed in a heated pool under the supervision of a physiotherapist or occupational therapist. The water's buoyancy reduces joint stress and allows movement that may be difficult on land, making it beneficial for children and adults with physical disability, chronic pain or low muscle tone.
A therapy approach that reduces challenging behaviours by understanding what is driving them and building supportive routines, environments and skills, so a child can take part more fully at home, school and in the community.
Practical and emotional support that helps families navigate services, funding, school and home challenges, connecting you to the right resources and advocating for your child.
A talking-based support that helps people work through emotional difficulties, relationship challenges, grief, stress or mental health concerns. A counsellor listens without judgement and helps you develop coping strategies and a clearer sense of direction.
Mealtime support services and groups across all life stages.
Help navigating the NDIS — finding and connecting with the right service providers, understanding a plan, managing budgets and ensuring supports are working together effectively. A support coordinator acts as a guide and advocate to help participants get the most from their funding.
Early years support for educators and families.
Autism inclusion support and school inclusion program for educators.
School transition and transition from school support services.
Individualised community support for school leavers and adults.
Accommodation and daily living support for people with disability who need assistance to live as independently as possible. Support workers assist with personal care, household tasks, community participation and skill development.
Individual day options for school leavers and adults.
Residential Care (DCP) services.
Short term accommodation services.
A comprehensive assessment — typically conducted by an occupational therapist or allied health professional — that evaluates how a person's disability or health condition affects their ability to carry out daily tasks. The report is used to determine NDIS funding needs and plan appropriate supports.
Funding support services.
Support for families of individuals with autism.
Various groups and programs including mealtime groups, school holiday programs, school readiness program, Explorers, Alpha group, Dungeons & Dragons, and Work my way.
Autism SA training, consultancy services, and diagnostic assessment training for professionals and organisations.
Therapy, assessment and consultation delivered remotely via video call, allowing families to access support from home without the need to travel. Telehealth sessions cover most services including psychology, speech pathology, occupational therapy and counselling.
Sensory Bus program operated by Autism SA.
Employment support services for school leavers and adults.
NDIS-approved supports, from the Commission register.
