Why

While there’s growing research about the experiences of Autistic parents, most has focused on mothers and we know very little about what parenting is like for Autistic fathers.

Their experiences - what’s working, what’s challenging, or what kinds of supports might be helpful – remain largely unknown. This lack of understanding makes it difficult to know how best to support them.

That’s why we want to hear directly from Autistic fathers about their parenting experiences, in their own words.

How do Autistic fathers experience parenting?

Take part

We’re looking for Autistic adults in Australia who see themselves as dads.

You can take part if you:

• are 18 years or older
• live in Australia
• identify as Autistic (this includes both formally diagnosed and self-identified people)
• identify as a “father” or “dad” (this includes cis men, trans men and non-binary people who use that word for themselves)

You don’t need to be the main caregiver and your children can be any age.

If you're interested, the first step is a short online survey (about 5–10 minutes). It will ask a few background questions and help us check if the project is the right fit.

Some people who complete the survey may be invited to take part in a one-on-one interview. This can happen by video call, phone or writing (like email or messaging), whatever works best for you. The interview will focus on your experiences as an Autistic father.

Making a difference

By sharing your experiences, you’ll help build a deeper understanding and contribute to shaping services that truly reflect the needs of Autistic fathers and their families.

Research team

• Dr Chris Edwards: Adjunct Research Fellow, Griffith University and Research Fellow, ARCAP
• Dr Abbey Love: Research Fellow, ARCAP
• Dr Vicki Gibbs: Head of Research, ARCAP
• Dr Ru Ying Cai: Research Fellow, ARCAP

This research is also being guided by a team of Autistic fathers as paid advisors.

Funding

Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia)

Ethics approval

GU Ref No: 2025/345