The inaugural Autism Works Employment Summit brought together key South Australian industries to explore practical ideas for autism inclusion in the workplace.
Proudly hosted by the Office for Autism, 500 attendees gathered at the Adelaide Convention Centre for the summit on 30 April 2025.
Designed for workplaces at any stage of their unique inclusion journey, the summit showcased the diverse and valuable skill sets Autistic people can bring to key industries including defence, energy, advanced manufacturing, mining, construction, IT, property and tourism.
Strategies, ideas and examples were shared by industry leaders, experts, and champions of inclusive employment, including Autistic people.
In his inspiring keynote video address, Sir Nick Hine, Babcock International Group, shared his story on addressing systemic and structural change to support inclusivity in the workplace.
Other event highlights included panel discussions with Autism Works in the Community grant recipients - including Nick Addison on Adelaide Oval’s new sensory space - and Autism Awareness and Understanding training by the Office for Autism.
Natasha Copley, DXC Technology Chief of Staff, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa shared inspiring case studies from their renowned Dandelion Program, and provided practical workplace inclusion strategies.
Delegates also had the opportunity to meet over 20 exhibitors offering practical products, support and services to help put their learnings from the summit into action - from recruitment and training, through to workspace furniture options.
View summit highlights in the highlights reel and photo gallery.