New Sunny Coast, Mackay & Rocky autism schools

Autism Queensland (AQ) is proud to announce the opening of three new AQ School campuses on the Sunshine Coast (Brightwater), Mackay, and Rockhampton, providing additional inclusive schooling for autistic students.

All three campuses will open in January 2025, filling a long-standing gap in specialist education support for autistic children and their families. All campuses will support full and part-time enrolments. The Brightwater campus on the Sunshine Coast will initially support students from Prep-Year 10, whilst the Mackay and Rockhampton campuses will cater for Prep-Year 3, with expansions planned to further years from 2026.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, autistic children are three times more likely to experience difficulties in school due to lack of appropriate support and understanding of their learning needs.

“There is an urgent need for high-quality, specialised education options where access to suitable schooling has historically been limited. The AQ School campuses will not only offer children the chance to receive personalised educational support but also provide local families with much-needed resources and a sense of community,” says AQ CEO, Pam Macrossan.

AQ School offers small class sizes of 6–8 students, multi-year groupings, and delivers the Australian curriculum with personalised adjustments and extensive support for each child. It fosters growth across key learning areas including Maths and English.

The new campuses will provide a holistic approach to education, with teachers supported by an interdisciplinary team to ensure each student’s academic, social, and emotional needs are met. Each class teacher also acts as a case manager, working closely with families and local schools to create consistent learning pathways and transition plans for long-term educational success.

Enrolments and interest in the new campuses have been high.

Parents and carers interested in securing a place for 2025 at any of the three campuses are encouraged to submit an expression of interest as soon as possible.

Please note: Fees apply for AQ School (including Distance Education). Enrolment offerings, year levels, and vacancies vary by location and waitlists may apply. AQ School students must have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Additional eligibility requirements may apply. NDIS funding cannot be used for AQ School fees. Cancellation policy and conditions apply, visit our policy page for full details.

An expression of interest does not guarantee an enrolment offer. Each application is processed and considered in accordance with the AQ School educational program, resources available, confirmed vacancies, and the applicant’s individual educational and support needs. The final decision is made by the AQ School Principal and no negotiations will be entered into.