Did you know that only 38% of working-age Australians on the autism spectrum are part of the labour force?

This is according to recent research which also found that around 3 in 10 autistic people are unable to work due to their disability, while the remaining 7 in 10 face barriers to employment, such as restrictions on the type of job available to those with autism spectrum disorder or assistance requirements.

However, hiring neurodiverse individuals can offer businesses a chance to be more competitive and could be the answer to Australia’s skills shortage. In fact, there are many benefits to employing people with autism that businesses should consider.

“Neurodiverse” refers to the natural variation in the human brain and nervous system, and includes individuals who have autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological conditions. By recognising and valuing this diversity, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Here are the advantages of hiring autistic adults in the workforce:

An autistic person thinks outside of the box

One of the main advantages of hiring people with autism is their strong visual thinking, unique perspective, and ability to think outside the box. Many individuals with autism possess remarkable attention to detail, exceptional memory, and the ability to focus on tasks for long periods of time. These skills can be particularly useful in fields such as technology, science, engineering, and data analysis.

Autistic individuals are loyal and committed

Another benefit is the level of loyalty and commitment that neurodiverse individuals bring to the workplace. According to recent research, employees with autism are likely to stay with their employer for longer periods of time compared to their neurotypical counterparts. This is because individuals with autism often thrive in structured environments, appreciate routine, and have a strong sense of purpose and loyalty.

Hiring autistic employees creates an inclusive and diverse workplace

Furthermore, employing people with autism can also help to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace. By embracing neurodiversity, businesses can foster a culture that values and celebrates the unique strengths and abilities of all employees. As people on the spectrum struggle with social and communication skills and rely heavily on body language, hiring such employees allows your business to adapt to different ways to communicate not just those with autism, but also those with an intellectual disability or those struggling with their social skills. This, in turn, can lead to increased morale, improved team dynamics, and greater innovation.

Having neurotypical employees provides your business with a competitive advantage

In addition, hiring people with autism can also provide a competitive advantage for businesses. With a shortage of skilled workers in many industries, tapping into the talents of neurodiverse individuals can help to fill skill gaps and boost productivity. Moreover, many customers and clients are looking to work with businesses that value diversity and inclusivity, which can lead to increased revenue and growth.

Hiring people with autism is not just the right thing to do, it’s also a smart business decision. By embracing neurodiversity and providing equal employment opportunities for individuals with autism, businesses can gain a competitive edge, foster a more inclusive and diverse workplace, and tap into the unique strengths and abilities of these valuable employees.

Let’s work together to create a more equitable and diverse workforce for all.