The Efficacy of Disability Employment Service (DES) Providers Working with Autistic Clients

The efficacy of the Australian Disability Employment Services (DES) for autistic jobseekers has not been examined and is currently undergoing Government reform. To help inform the new DES strategy, we sought the views of: 24 autistic individuals; seven family members of autistic individuals, and; 46 DES employees. Data were collected using surveys and interviews. Data were analysed using Mann Whitney tests plus deductive thematic analysis based on Nicholas and colleagues' ecosystems model. Participants highlighted a need to adapt existing policies to enhance flexibility of the DES model. There was participant consensus that DES staff require specific education and training to meet the needs of autistic people. Suggestions to inform the new model of DES for autistic people are made.

Automated summary

The efficacy of the Australian Disability Employment Services (DES) for autistic jobseekers is currently being examined and undergoing Government reform. This study sought the views of autistic individuals, family members, and DES employees to inform the new DES strategy. The findings suggest a need for policy adaptation and specific education and training for DES staff to better support autistic people.