Suicide in autism: Research evidence and policy brief

This policy brief underscores the urgent need for the Australian Government and key suicide prevention bodies to formally acknowledge the significantly increased risk of suicide among Autistic Australians. Despite clear evidence from both national and international research highlighting a heightened risk of suicide within the Autistic community, Autistic Australians have not been prioritised in suicide prevention efforts. The brief identifies specific barriers to accessing mental health and suicide prevention services, such as long waitlists, high costs, and ineligibility for support services. It calls for targeted research, policy changes, and practices that address these barriers and reduce the risk of suicide among Autistic Australians.