New resources to support best practice assessment and diagnosis of autism

The National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders defines clinical best practice for the assessment and diagnosis of autism in Australia. Developed and funded by the NDIA, it aims to provide:

• greater equity in access to a rigorous and comprehensive autism assessment

• transparency and confidence in the decision-making process 

• a clearly defined pathway to support needs. 

The National Guideline Implementation Toolkit will help clinicians to upskill and deliver the recommendations in the Guideline. It includes learning resources and practical tools, such as:

• videos and fact sheets – summarising key recommendations in the National Guideline. 

• a Baseline Evaluation and Audit Tool – to check how current practice aligns with the National Guideline and to help plan for practice revisions.

• template forms – including a referral form, medical evaluation form and assessment findings report template.

• training information – recommendations for obtaining and maintaining skills to deliver the Guideline recommendations.

Register or login to Autism CRC to access the toolkit and National Guideline.

Individuals undergoing an assessment, parents and caregivers can also access resources that explain the National Guideline and what to expect from an assessment. Community resources are available without registration and are available here.

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has approved the National Guideline recommendations, indicating that they represent best practice health care in Australia.

The development of the new resources were funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Social Services.

Learn more about the Autism CRC by visiting their website.