The Government of South Australia is committed to enhancing outcomes for Autistic people and continuing to position South Australia as a world leader in autism inclusivity. In 2024, the grants program of the Office for Autism was launched, and the Autism Works in the Community Grants Program has run annually since then. So far, this Grants Program has funded 34 innovative projects designed to boost knowledge, foster understanding, and cultivate a sense of belonging for Autistic people and their communities.
Noteworthy initiatives include supporting sensory spaces at key venues and events, such as at Adelaide Oval, Illuminate Adelaide, Schoolies FestivalTM, and Amplifii Music Festival, supporting Autistic individuals and their families to enjoy the many events our great state has to offer.
The Grants Program has also funded initiatives that have provided meaningful workplace outcomes for Autistic people, including supporting work-trial pathways and workplace readiness projects. Past recipients include Together We Can International Pty Ltd, Jigsaw, Autism SA, and Babcock.
If you have a project or idea that promotes awareness and builds understanding and inclusion for Autistic people and the autism community in South Australia, we encourage you to apply for funding through the ‘Autism Works in the Community Grants Program 2025 – 2026.’
The current round of the Autism Works in the Community Grants Program is now open, with applications closing at 5 pm on 9 January 2026, Australian Central Daylight Savings Time (ACDT).
Aligned with the SA Autism Strategy, the 2025/2026 Autism Works in the Community Grants Program aims to support organisations to provide contemporary facilities, equipment and opportunities to meet the needs of Autistic people and promote genuine autism inclusion in South Australia.
Organisations can apply for funding to support inclusion activities that increase knowledge, understanding and belonging for Autistic people and autism communities in South Australia.
These grants are to:
For this funding round, priority will be given to projects that focus on the following areas:
• Improve opportunities in employment or volunteering for Autistic people
• Improve the level of knowledge and understanding of autism including Autistic strengths and support needs
Interested applicants are encouraged to attend an online information session, which will cover eligibility, guidelines, how to apply, and answer any questions. This will be held on Friday, 12 December, 10:00 am-11:00 am Australian Central Daylight Savings Time (ACDT). Register here to attend.
Further details, including the Funding Guidelines, links to apply, and information on past recipients, are available on the Office for Autism website.
