Deadline: 09-Jan-2026
The Autism Works in the Community Grants provide funding of $5,000 to $30,000 to organisations in South Australia supporting Autistic people. The program focuses on employment, volunteering, community inclusion, and projects that enhance understanding, belonging, and accessibility for Autistic communities. Priority is given to Autistic-led initiatives, projects addressing disadvantage, and those in regional or culturally diverse communities.
Overview
The Autism Works in the Community Grants aim to strengthen opportunities, inclusion, and belonging for Autistic South Australians. Managed by the Office for Autism within the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, the program supports projects that enhance understanding of autism, improve access to employment and volunteering, and foster inclusive community environments. Projects are expected to run between mid-2026 and June 2027, with funding approvals beginning early 2026.
Key Objectives
-
Increase knowledge and understanding of autism and Autistic strengths.
-
Enhance access to employment and volunteering opportunities for Autistic people.
-
Foster inclusion, community participation, and a sense of belonging.
-
Support sustainable facilities, equipment, and programs tailored to Autistic needs.
Who is Eligible?
-
Eligible Organisations: Non-profit and community organisations delivering initiatives in South Australia.
-
Priority: Autistic-led projects or initiatives where leadership and decision-making is predominantly Autistic.
-
Projects supporting communities experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage, regional or remote locations, and minority groups including culturally and linguistically diverse communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Funding Details
-
Grant Amounts: $5,000 – $30,000 (excluding GST).
-
Project Duration: Mid-2026 to June 2027.
-
Funding supports one-off projects to improve facilities, equipment, programs, and opportunities for Autistic people.
How It Works / How to Apply
-
Identify a Project: Focus on employment, volunteering, inclusion, accessibility, or community understanding of autism.
-
Develop Proposal: Include project objectives, expected outcomes, timelines, budget, and sustainability plan.
-
Submit Application: Through the Office for Autism funding portal once the call opens.
-
Assessment: Applications are evaluated based on alignment with program objectives, impact, inclusion, Autistic leadership, and reach to priority communities.
-
Funding Approval and Implementation: Successful projects commence after early 2026 funding approval.
Why It Matters
-
Promotes Inclusion: Enhances community awareness and acceptance of Autistic people.
-
Supports Employment and Volunteering: Builds pathways for meaningful participation.
-
Addresses Inequities: Targets projects benefiting disadvantaged, minority, and regional communities.
-
Empowers Autistic Leadership: Encourages Autistic-led decision-making and program design.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Submitting projects not aligned with autism inclusion or community participation objectives.
-
Lack of clarity on Autistic leadership or involvement in decision-making.
-
Inadequate project planning, timelines, or sustainability considerations.
-
Neglecting to include strategies for reaching priority or disadvantaged communities.
FAQ
1. What types of projects are eligible?
Projects that improve employment, volunteering, community inclusion, understanding of autism, or accessibility for Autistic people.
2. Can Autistic individuals lead the project?
Yes, priority is given to Autistic-led initiatives or projects with predominantly Autistic leadership.
3. Who can apply?
Non-profit and community organisations operating in South Australia.
4. What is the maximum grant amount?
$30,000 excluding GST.
5. When must projects be delivered?
Between mid-2026 and June 2027.
6. Are projects in regional areas eligible?
Yes, regional and remote projects are prioritised.
7. Do projects need to address diversity or disadvantage?
Yes, initiatives supporting socioeconomically disadvantaged or culturally diverse communities are highly encouraged.
Conclusion
The Autism Works in the Community Grants provide a strategic opportunity for organisations to enhance inclusion, employment, and belonging for Autistic South Australians. By prioritising Autistic leadership, disadvantaged communities, and regional engagement, the program fosters sustainable, meaningful, and locally relevant initiatives that align with the South Australian Autism Strategy 2024–2029.
For more information, visit Government of South Australia.