Connections4Women: A Groundbreaking Social Initiative for Autistic Women

An exciting new Connections4Women project aims to address barriers and build meaningful, lasting social connections for autistic women living in Queensland.

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services Autism Queensland’s (AQ) Connections4Women will involve the development and delivery of free in-person and online groups for anyone who identifies as an autistic woman (aged 18 years and over and living in Queensland).

The groups, to be facilitated with lived experience at the core, will provide a safe space for members to connect and collaborate with like-minded people. Their aim is to create a sense of belonging for participants within the community.

Feedback collected from women accessing AQ’s services indicates a clear gap in specialised services for women. It highlights a need for a safe, supported space where women can connect with other women on a similar life’s journey, explore identity and learn about relevant community supports and services.

Research suggests this type of connection with other autistic people is a protective factor against the negative impacts of masking and social isolation (Jordan, 2021). The Connections4Women initiative will increase access to and engagement in group services that currently do not exist.

Dr Caitlin Taggart, AQ’s Coordinator Community Inclusion is leading the 18-month project.

“Many autistic women are at increased risk of social isolation, discrimination, marginalisation, and negative mental health outcomes.

“This is particularly apparent for those women living in regional and remote areas, as well as for those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, gender diverse and LGBTQIA+ people, and those with complex needs.

“We are excited and proud to have the opportunity to deliver this important and vital project.”

Expressions of interest from autistic women who are interested in joining a Connections4Women group are now being collected (see below). There is no charge to attend.

In-person groups will run in Toowoomba, Brisbane, Central Queensland and online. Each group will be limited to eight (8) participants and each session will run for up to two hours.

Session dates and times are still to be confirmed, but all interested women (and living in Queensland) are encouraged to register their interest via the link below as soon as possible. For all other enquiries email: [email protected].