The lived experiences and perspectives of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder in mainstream employment in Australia
Overview
This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of nine individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) working in open (mainstream) employment in Australia. Using semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis, the study aimed to understand the types of support individuals with ASD receive and how they define success in employment.
Findings revealed four key themes:
- being supported
- feeling successful
- lack of career progression, and
- expectations.
Participants received support from family, managers, and co-workers, but reported limited long-term support from Disability Employment Services (DES), which focused more on job acquisition than career development. Many participants were underemployed, working in roles that did not match their qualifications or aspirations, yet still reported feeling successful due to having a job and being valued at work.
Recommendations include the need for a consistent, long-term support model for people with ASD in employment, better job matching, and training for DES providers to support career progression. The study also calls for more inclusive employment practices and stakeholder collaboration.
The findings highlight a gap in Australia’s current disability employment policy, particularly the DES funding model which incentivises short-term job placements over long-term career development. Policy reform is needed to ensure people with ASD receive sustained, tailored support throughout their working lives, aligning with the goals of the NDIS and the UNCRPD.