Positive Partnerships (AU Autism) Professional Development

Positive Partnerships is an Australian Government-funded initiative that provides free, evidence-informed professional development for educators and families working with school-aged autistic students. Implemented by Autism Spectrum Australia (ASPECT), the programme has been supporting schools since 2008 as part of the Helping Children with Autism initiative, making it one of the longest-running and most accessible autism education professional development programs in the country. Professional development offerings include a Two Day Professional Learning Program for educators, Whole School Professional Learning workshops that build capacity across an entire school community, and the Schools and Families Together Program where teachers and parents/carers attend workshops together to strengthen the partnerships that are essential for supporting autistic students. All workshops are delivered at no cost and are available to staff and families from all government and non-government, primary and secondary schools across Australia — removing the financial barriers that often prevent schools from accessing specialist training. What sets Positive Partnerships apart is its dual focus on professional practice and family engagement. By bringing educators and families together in shared learning experiences, the programme builds the collaborative relationships that research consistently shows lead to better outcomes for autistic students. Workshops help educators strengthen their understanding of autism, improve their skills and expertise in supporting autistic students, and develop whole-school approaches that create genuinely inclusive learning environments. For Australian schools seeking high-quality, evidence-informed autism education professional development at no cost, Positive Partnerships is an invaluable resource.