Our legacy: Where we began
Aspect began in 1966 as a small parent-led initiative to start a school at a time when autism was poorly understood, and services were virtually non-existent. That determination to create meaningful change has guided our growth ever since.
Over nearly six decades, Aspect has grown from a single school into a national organisation, responding to increasing awareness, diagnosis and demand. Our focus has expanded from supporting young children to working with people on the autism spectrum across the lifespan, including teenagers, adults and those seeking support later in life. Through this growth, our purpose has remained clear: to provide support that respects individuality, builds on strengths and responds to what matters most to each person.
As needs have grown, so too has our impact. From five schools supporting 85 students in the early 1980s, Aspect now operates 10 schools and more than 100 satellite classrooms across NSW and South Australia, supporting over 1,360 students alongside a broad range of services for adults, families and carers.
Throughout this evolution, Aspect has helped shape how autism is understood in Australia - pioneering new approaches, advocating alongside Autistic people and their families, and championing a strengths-based view of autism that continues to guide our work today.
Our present: Who we are today
Today, Aspect works in partnership with Autistic people of all ages and their families to design and deliver practical, person-centred supports that reflect individual strengths, preferences and goals.
We deliver one of the world’s largest autism-specific education programs, operating 10 independent schools and more than 100 satellite classes across NSW and South Australia. Our strengths-based, individualised approach creates inclusive learning environments where students are supported to grow, learn and thrive. We also work with educators beyond Aspect, providing professional development that builds confidence and capability in supporting Autistic students.
Our supports extend across the lifespan – Aspect provides diagnostic assessments, therapy, positive behaviour support, adult and community programs, NDIS-funded supports, and Autism Friendly consultancy to help organisations become inclusive spaces.
All our work is grounded in evidence and shaped by lived experience. As a trusted partner to families, communities and organisations, we work to create environments where Autistic people are not only supported but genuinely included and where they can pursue their goals on their own terms.
Our future: What comes next
We are proud of our 60-year legacy and are focused on what comes next. Looking ahead, Aspect is committed to shaping a future where systems, services and communities work better for Autistic people across Australia.
Our Strategic Plan 2026–2030 sets a clear direction for the years ahead - strengthening our influence, expanding access to supports, building a resilient organisation and measuring what matters to maximise our impact. Through this plan, we will continue to respond to growing demand, changing needs and new opportunities, while true to our purpose.
Our future work will continue to be guided by evidence, lived experience and co-design. We will harness technology, deepen partnerships and invest in our people to deliver high-quality, sustainable supports that evolve over time.
While we’ve made progress, we know there’s still more to do. Together, we are working towards a world where Autistic people are seen and valued, and have access to the right support to live, learn, work and play.