Mambourin supports people living with a range of different disabilities and support needs.
If you’d like to discuss how we can support you, contact one of our friendly team members on 9731 9200 or email us at hello@mambourin.org
Get in touchLooking for information on ASD? Here are some of our frequently asked questions.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates and interacts with their environment. It is a life-long condition, with around 1 in every 70 Australians affected. People with autism can experience difficulties with social interactions or communication and may display repetitive or restricted behaviours that are emotional, physical or both. Many people with autism also experience sensitivity to touch, sounds and smells. It’s important to remember that just as we all have individual personalities with unique strengths and weaknesses, no two people with autism have exactly the same characteristics or challenges.
The term ‘spectrum’ is used to explain the range of characteristics that can present in a person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Some people with autism may be described as ‘high functioning’ because they are able to function well in social situations. Some people may be comfortable with sensory interaction while others are not. Some people may have poor conversation skills while others may have more typical speech. With autism, there is no one-size-fits-all.
While there is a lot of study being done into what causes autism, for now, we don’t know the exact cause. Experts suggest that there is a range of developmental, genetic and environmental factors that may contribute, but the research is ongoing. Although there is no cure for autism, strategies such as therapy and support are helping people with autism thrive.
Common characteristics shared by people with autism may include all or some of the following:
Autism is a relatively common condition in Australia with around 1 in 70 diagnosed. In 2015, 164,000 Australians were living with autism, with males four times more likely than females to have the condition.
There is currently no definitive test for the diagnosis of autism. Instead, a series of developmental assessments and behavioural observations are completed by a reliable professional or team of professionals to gain an overall understanding of the individual. Most commonly, autism is identified in young people after they begin socialising in a classroom or family setting.
Autism should only be diagnosed by a specialist multidisciplinary team, pediatrician, psychiatrist or clinical psychologist. There are both government funded and private services available to the public.
With the right support, many people with autism will lead to active and independent adult lives. Organisations like Mambourin are dedicated to supporting people with autism to build practical life skills that grow their confidence and help them to live life on their terms.
We can help build skills in:
Luckily, there are lots of resources to support people with autism and their families. If you’re new to it all, Amaze is a good place for people living in Victoria to start.
Talking to a group of people who can relate to your experiences can also be helpful. Here’s a list of support groups around Victoria.
Difficulty navigating social interactions is a typical characteristic in people with autism, so getting out and connecting with people in a safe environment is important for enhancing social participation and building new skills.
Mambourin offers a range of Social and interest choices that almost always take place in a group setting.
We know that everyone is unique, so no matter what you want to learn or are interested in, we will do our very best to connect you to it.
Social and interest choices:
Along with social and interest choices, Mambourin offers a great range of leisure and recreation choices for those who are interested in getting out and about!
Our wide range of leisure and recreation choices include:
Weekend activities are varied to suit all tastes and you can choose which ones you’d like to join. Some of our more popular options include:
Getting out and about in the community, either in a group setting or one-on-one is a great way to improve your communication and social skills. Mambourin has a huge range of structured, group-based activities and individual outings to choose from that we like to call community choices.
Your community choices:
Unfortunately, finding employment can be difficult for those living with autism. In Australia, the unemployment rate for people with autism is 31.6 per cent. That’s almost six times the rate of people without a disability. The good news is that with the right network and opportunities, many people with autism can find work in a variety of fields.
Speak to Mambourin about your employment goals and we will work to connect you to every opportunity to make them happen. We have a range of pathways to further training and offer on-the-job support when you need it.
Opportunities we can provide include:
For people with autism aged 16 and over and still enrolled in school, a Mambourin Traineeship is a great pathway to further study or employment.
The best part? You get paid as you go!
Mambourin supports people living with a range of different disabilities and support needs.
If you’d like to discuss how we can support you, contact one of our friendly team members on 9731 9200 or email us at hello@mambourin.org
Get in touch