A Systematic Review to Move Australian Disability Employment Forward for Autistic People

Abstract

The current Disability Employment Service (DES) model serving autistic job seekers in Australia will end in the year 2023. The Australian Government is exploring new options for a replacement model. Aiding these efforts a systematic review of the literature examined the evidence base of effective assisted employment supports for autistic people in Australia. Using PRISMA guidelines, of 1839 search results, eight papers met inclusion criteria concerning: (a) autistic individuals, (b) assisted employment in Australia, (c) enablers to employment gain or retention, and (d) original evidence. All effective activities require providers to understand autism and the needs of autistic adults. We suggest the first steps in enhancing DES include educating providers and their staff in autism and hiring autistic employment consultants.