The Albanese Labor Government is empowering young Autistic people in Western Australia to improve their education, employment and social engagement through the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Funded under the Strong and Resilient Communities – Inclusive Communities activity, the project aims to support up to 150 teens aged 12 to 18 to reconnect with other young people and empower them with cutting-edge AI knowledge and skills.
Curtin University will receive $360,000 over two years to train Autistic teens in the Perth, Bunbury and Mandurah regions in the application of AI technology, building their skills and helping them to become more competitive when looking for jobs.
Their participation in bootcamps, online learning, and mentorship sessions will provide skills and knowledge in AI, increasing education and employment-related opportunities, and provide social connections.
Visting Curtin University in Perth today, Minster for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said the Albanese Government is committed to building strong and resilient communities.
“Labor is investing in projects around the country that will strengthen our communities and have the biggest positive impact on its members,” Minister Rishworth said.
“Artificial intelligence is playing a more significant role in all of our lives, and for young Australians, the ability to navigate and harness is increasingly important.
“This innovative project will help up to 150 young Autistic Australians at a critical time in their lives to better participate in their community and improve their education and employment outcomes.
“Through SARC-funded projects like this one, we are delivering community-led solutions for the community, by the community.”
Member for Swan Zaneta Mascarenhas said the project was a “fantastic example of how technology can be harnessed to empower young people, particularly those with autism, to unlock their potential in education, work, and social settings”.
"Supporting young Australians to embrace cutting-edge technology like AI will give them a head start in a rapidly evolving job market while also fostering social inclusion,” Ms Mascarenhas said.
"This initiative highlights the Albanese Government's dedication to ensuring no one is left behind as we move toward a more innovative and inclusive future."
The Albanese Labor Government today also launched the National Autism Strategy 2025-31, dedicated to improving inclusion, support and life outcomes for all Autistic Australians, including in education and employment.
Since 2022, the Albanese Government has invested over $47.5 million into SARC – IC grants.
This grant was part of the third competitive grant round for SARC-IC, which was open to not-for-profit, community-based organisations that work to improve the social and economic participation of disadvantaged people in the community, with a focus on:
- young people 12 to 18 years who are disengaged, or at risk of disengaging, from education to reconnect with their community, school, training and/or employment;
- people with disabilities and/or mental health issues to participate in the community, and work towards becoming or remaining independent and engaged in the economy and/or society;
- women who experience, or are at risk of experiencing isolation or discrimination to participate in the community and/or economy and increase their self-agency; and
- people who are unemployed to increase participation in their community and/or increase their capacity to engage in employment, training, or existing employment services.
The fourth competitive grant round for SARC-IC is currently open to not-for-profit, community-based organisations across all States and Territories, offering up to $360,000 over two years of funding from 2025-2027.
More information about the SARC Activity and the grant round is available on the Grant Connect website.
More information on the National Autism Strategy, its First Action Plan and supporting materials including accessible versions are available on the Department of Social Services website.