Why Inclusion Matters This April

While the world celebrates autism’s international day on 2 April, Queensland’s peak body for autism is calling on the community to recognise the critical importance of inclusion across the month.

In a campaign that aligns with the National Autism Strategy 2025–2031 priorities of social and economic inclusion, AQ’s #ShowYourTrueColours campaign aims to foster understanding, celebrate diversity, and create real change by building more inclusive communities, schools, and workplaces.

Chief Executive Officer Frances Scodellaro said too many autistic people are still facing barriers that limit their opportunities and well-being.

Research shows autistic people are being left behind in education, they experience employment discrimination and suffer from social isolation.

“Every person deserves equitable access to education, employment, healthcare, and social participation.”

“Yet we know autistic people are being left behind in education and employment. Parents are reporting their children are being excluded from schools, and three in four autistic job seekers are not being offered a job.”

“Social isolation is also a critical concern with many autistic people and their families, with 39% reported as being unable to leave their houses due to concerns about negative responses from others.”

Frances said the National Autism Strategy’s focus on social and economic inclusion was encouraging, as was its investment in peer-support programmes and public awareness campaigns, however there was still much work to be done to address the stigma that autistic Australians face, and in creating opportunities for genuine participation in community life, education, and the workforce.

“By inviting all Queenslander’s to #ShowYourTrueColours we seek to advance inclusion, awareness and support for all autistic people within the wider community.”

Across April, AQ is encouraging Queenslanders to take action by sharing facts about autism, challenging misconceptions and promoting acceptance in their school, workplace and community.

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