If you are an Autistic person, you may find it helpful to express your need for support in challenging situations such as:
- when you feel anxious in an unfamiliar environment and need assistance
- if you feel unsafe and need to ask for help
- during interactions with police, fire, ambulance or security staff
- when you don’t have access to your preferred communication strategies
- whenever you feel other people knowing you are Autistic would be helpful
Two items that may help you communicate your needs are the:
- Aspect Autism Alert Card
- Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard
Aspect Autism Alert Card
The Aspect Autism Alert card is an Autistic-led initiative. The cards have been designed by Autistic individuals and will be most suitable for adolescents and adults. In 2024, the Aspect Autism Alert Card was modified and improved, based on feedback from 272 cardholders.
We are offering these cards free of charge to members of the Australian Autistic community through the form below.
There are two types of alert cards – a folded card and a plastic card. Both types have been designed by Autistic people. They are most suited for adolescents and adults.
Folded card
Information on the card:
- Front says “I am Autistic”
- Space to write your name and the name of an emergency contact
- Tips for helping Autistic people
- List of common Autistic behaviours with the option to add more details
Material: cardboard
Size: folds to be the size of a credit card
Use: can be kept in a wallet or lanyard holder
Cost: free
Plastic card
Information on the card:
- Front says “I am Autistic”
- Space to write your name and the name of an emergency contact
- Several tips for helping Autistic people
- QR code linking to more information about autism
Material: plastic
Size: size of a credit card
Use: can be kept in a wallet or lanyard holder
Cost: free
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to provide an official diagnosis to apply for the card?
No diagnosis is needed to request a card
How many cards can I order?
There is a maximum of two Cardboard Cards and one Plastic Card per order.
What happens after I submit my form?
Aspect will post the card to your address. If you select to "Learn more about Aspect's Autism Friendly" in the form, you may receive future news and information about additional activities and initiatives at Aspect.
What if my card hasn’t arrived?
Please be patient and wait up to three weeks for your card to arrive. If your card doesn’t arrive after three weeks, email customerengagement@aspect.org.au
What should I do if I lose my card?
Complete the application form on this page again and explain that you have lost your card in the comments section.
Ordering your Alert Card
Please complete the form below to order an Autism Alert Card
Disclaimer: Aspect is not liable for any damages arising from the use of the Autism Alert Card, or from any action or decision taken as a result of the use of the card.
There is a maximum of 3 cards per order and they can only be sent to an Australian postal address.
Aspect mails out cards once a week.
Aspect Autism Friendly
Learn more about Aspect's inititiatives to make Australia more autism friendly
