The Albanese Government is providing $643,853 over two years to Reframing Autism, to help people working in the youth justice system better understand and support Autistic people.
Autistic people aged 15-18 are overrepresented in Australia's youth justice system and are more likely to experience barriers when accessing justice services.
Those people, their families and carers should be treated with respect and deserve to have their differences and strengths understood and supported.
The grant will fund activities and resources that promote understanding and build the skills of youth justice workers, including police, court and prison workers, and legal professionals.
These include:
- Two-day Train the Trainer program for in-state Youth Justice Trainers
- Half day Skills Maintenance program for staff champions in the Youth Justice system, delivered in person by specialist Autistic and/or First Nations trainers
- An Autism In-Justice Toolkit to support on-going onboarding and workforce development
The training programs and resources are expected to reach 6,000 current Youth Justice staff.
The funding is being provided under the National Autism Strategy, to support and empower Autistic people so they can thrive in all aspects of life.
Quotes attributable to NDIS Minister, Senator Jenny McAllister:
"The Albanese Government is working hard to improve the lives of Autistic people by promoting dignity, understanding and inclusion as part of our National Autism Strategy."
"An important step is better equipping workers in the youth justice system to create positive and supportive experiences for any young Autistic people they encounter."
"There should be equal opportunities for Autistic people to access supports within youth justice services."
