Sydney, NSW – Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) has appointed Kim Maksimovic as Head of Aspect Distance Education, as demand continues to grow for specialist education supporting Autistic students who are unable to regularly attend traditional school settings.
Ms Maksimovic takes on the role at a time of significant growth for the program, which has expanded from just nine students in 2020 to more than 100 students across New South Wales and South Australia. Earlier this year, Aspect launched the program in South Australia, marking its first expansion beyond New South Wales.
Aspect Chief Executive Officer Jacqui Borland said Ms Maksimovic's appointment reflects the organisation's commitment to ensuring more Autistic students can access high-quality, specialist education.
"Kim is a highly respected education leader who brings extensive experience in specialist education, educational leadership and supporting students with diverse learning needs," Ms Borland said.
"She understands the importance of creating learning environments where every student feels safe, supported and able to succeed, and is passionate about working alongside families to achieve the best possible outcomes for their children.
"With growing numbers of families seeking flexible education options for Autistic students, Kim's leadership will be instrumental as we continue to expand the distance education program while maintaining the individualised, evidence-informed approach that Aspect is known for."
Ms Maksimovic has worked across specialist education throughout her career and holds a Masters of Education from the University of Technology Sydney. She has a strong interest in inclusive education and helping students successfully engage with learning through approaches tailored to their individual strengths and needs.
Ms Maksimovic said she was honoured to lead a program that is making a meaningful difference to the lives of Autistic students and their families.
"I'm delighted to have the opportunity to lead Aspect's Distance Education program at such an exciting time in its growth” said Ms Maksimovic. “Every child deserves an education where they feel understood, supported and able to learn in a way that works for them.
"Distance Education provides an important option for students whose needs are not currently being met in a traditional classroom. Our role is to create an environment where they can rebuild confidence, reconnect with learning and experience success.
"What makes the program unique is that there is no one-size-fits-all pathway. For some students, Distance Education becomes their long-term learning environment. For others, it provides the support and confidence they need to transition back into a classroom setting when the time is right.
"As we continue to grow, we're also looking to welcome more passionate educators to join our team. It's a unique opportunity to work in a collaborative, innovative environment and help shape the educational journeys of Autistic students across Australia."
Aspect's Distance Education program combines live online teaching delivered by specialist educators with allied health support, individualised learning, family partnerships and regular opportunities for students to connect with peers through Connection Days, excursions and group activities. The program supports students experiencing barriers to regular school attendance, including anxiety, sensory overwhelm, burnout and school refusal.
Media contact:
Karen Keech karen@establishedpr.com.au 0411 052 408
About Aspect
Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia) is one of Australia's largest autism-specific service providers, with one of the world's most extensive autism-specific educational programs. Celebrating 60 years in 2026, Aspect is a not-for-profit organisation working in partnership with people of all ages on the autism spectrum to co-develop, co-produce and co-deliver supports and services that are individualised, goal-driven and grounded in evidence-based practice.
