Our core values represent who we are and what is important to us. They embody what we do every day.

• Integrity & Authenticity: We are genuine, honest, and accountable in all that we do.
• Diversity & Inclusion: We respect and celebrate all people and their right to participate and belong.
• Strengths Focus: We strive to support the development of every person’s potential, recognising that a strengths focus enables growth and empowers decision-making and self-advocacy.
• Safety & Wellbeing: We provide and promote safe, respectful, caring, and engaging people and environments that support positive development and relationships.
• Evidence-Informed Practice: We use professional reasoning to bring together current high-quality research evidence and the values, strengths, and preferences of individuals and families to optimise outcomes.

Autism Queensland recognises that every autistic person has the right to determine how they wish to be described, and acknowledges that families and supporters may also have preferences when referring to a loved one. We respect that language is personal and that preferences may differ between individuals, families, and communities.

In recognition of the growing preference for identity-first language within the autism community, AQ uses terms such as ‘autistic person’ rather than ‘person with autism’ across current resources, promotional materials, and external communications (including our website and social media) where an individual’s stated preference is not known. Where a person has expressed a preference for different terminology, AQ and our staff aim to respect and use their preferred language when referring to them.

Some previously published documents, resources, and communications may contain different terminology. These materials may be updated as part of our ongoing review and revision processes.

When referring to the formal diagnostic classification, AQ may use the term ‘Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)’, consistent with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) and the National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Australia. The use of this terminology in diagnostic, clinical, or formal contexts does not diminish our commitment to respecting individual language preferences and recognising the diversity of experiences within the autistic community.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.

AQ acknowledges the importance and value of the reconciliation journey with Traditional Custodians and Owners of all the lands and waters on which we live and work. We acknowledge the wisdom of Elders past and extend our respect for the valuable contributions of Elders present and those emerging leaders who willingly share cultural knowledge. Our teams recognise the significance of connections between country and culture for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as we walk together toward participation, opportunity, and choice.

AQ’s Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) was created in 2023, establishing a foundation for the organisation’s ongoing reconciliation journey. The plan outlined commitments to building meaningful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities, strengthening cultural understanding and respect, and creating opportunities to improve representation and inclusion. Guided by community consultation and collaboration, the plan aimed to embed culturally safe practices across Autism Queensland’s services, workplace and partnerships, supporting more inclusive and culturally responsive outcomes for autistic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their families.

One of the drivers in the development was to design a consultative framework to ensure that consideration of cultural needs across all services delivery is informed and guided by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We recognise the importance of applying cultural knowledge in every-day practice promotes cultural safety.