Teaching | Research | Community engagement
through the lifespan
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are lifelong conditions that affect approximately 1 in 160 children and their families. Over 350 Queensland children are diagnosed with ASDs every year. Autism Spectrum Disorders affect people of all ages in every aspect of their lives, from the way they play and work, to how they learn and how they interact with family, friends, and strangers.
Rates of Autism Spectrum Disorders in Queensland school children are at an all-time high. Figures released in April 2010 on Education Queensland’s website indicated that 9978, or 2.05 per cent of state school students in 2009, had been diagnosed with an ASD. The reported incidence of ASDs is clearly rising. Many people, in particular parents and families, are struggling to cope.
The establishment of our Centre, which is based on a pioneering six-point plan addresses the educational issues associated with ASDs. This plan will prepare the next generation of educators and other professionals working in Autism and further enhance the skill set of current professionals.
