# What is Australia's National Autism Strategy?

> The 2025–2031 strategy's four outcome areas, the first action plan, and what it could mean for families.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/national-autism-strategy-australia
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** The National Autism Strategy 2025–2031 is the Australian Government's plan to improve life outcomes for autistic people. It was co-designed with autistic people and families and focuses on four areas: social inclusion, economic inclusion, diagnosis, services and supports, and health and mental health. A First Action Plan for 2025–26 sets out practical steps.

**Key takeaways**
- The strategy runs from **2025 to 2031**.
- It was **co-designed** with autistic people and families.
- **Four outcome areas**: social inclusion, economic inclusion, diagnosis and supports, and health.
- The **First Action Plan (2025–26)** sets out practical steps.

## What is the National Autism Strategy?

It's a national framework for improving outcomes for all autistic people in Australia, with a vision of a safe and inclusive society where autistic people are supported and empowered to thrive.[1]

## What are the four outcome areas?

| Area | Examples of issues covered |
| --- | --- |
| Social inclusion | Community acceptance, education, safety |
| Economic inclusion | Work, training, financial security |
| Diagnosis, services and supports | Access to timely assessment and good-quality supports |
| Health and mental health | Covered by the Autism Health Roadmap |

The strategy includes commitments under the first three areas, and the Autism Health Roadmap addresses the fourth.[1]

## What's in the First Action Plan?

The First Action Plan 2025–26 lists practical actions to deliver the strategy's commitments. The department reports that a National Autism Strategy Reference Group first met in February 2026, and that work has started on most actions in the plan.[1]

**Related changes.** Other reforms affecting autistic children, like Thriving Kids and NDIS changes, sit alongside the strategy. See [What
  changed for autistic children in the NDIS in 2026?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/ndis-changes-2026)

## What could it mean for families and schools?

- A stronger focus on **timely diagnosis** and **good-quality supports**
- More attention to **inclusion** in education and community life
- **Health and mental health** support designed with autistic people

**Have your say.** Government consultations on autism and disability policy are often open to families. Watch the department's page for
  opportunities.

Free printable: [Free printable: starter pack](https://theautismkit.com/printables/starter-pack.pdf)

## What can I do next?

- [ ] Read the strategy summary on the department's website
- [ ] Check for open consultations
- [ ] Share what matters to your family with your school or local member

Read next: [What do the Autism CRC national guidelines recommend?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/autism-crc-guidelines)

## Common questions

### Who developed the strategy?

It was developed through a co-design process with autistic people, families, carers, experts and the autism and disability sectors, with a National Autism Strategy Oversight Council.

### What is the Autism Health Roadmap?

The National Roadmap to Improve the Health and Mental Health of Autistic People covers the fourth outcome area: health and mental health.

### Does the strategy change NDIS eligibility?

Not on its own. NDIS access changes are handled separately, including the move to Thriving Kids for some younger children.

## Sources

1. Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing: National Autism Strategy. https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/national-autism-strategy

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.