✓NDIS-registered provider✓Paediatric early-intervention focus✓In-home, in-clinic & telehealth
Understanding Autism
What is autism?
Autism (autism spectrum disorder, or ASD) is a lifelong difference in how a person communicates, interacts, plays and experiences the world. It is a spectrum — every autistic child is different, with their own strengths and support needs. Autism is not caused by parenting, and it is not something a child “grows out of” — but with the right early support, children build communication, connection and independence and thrive.
In Australia, autism is one of the most common reasons children access the NDIS, and early intervention makes a real difference because a young child’s brain is most adaptable in the first years of life.
Signs by age
Early signs of autism, by age
Children develop at their own pace, and one sign on its own rarely means much. But if you notice several of these — or your child seems to be losing skills they had — it’s worth talking to a professional. These are common signs, not a diagnosis.
👶Under 2 years
- Limited eye contact or smiling back
- Not responding to their name by 12 months
- Little pointing, waving or showing you things
- Few or no babbled “words” by 12–16 months
- Repetitive movements (e.g. hand-flapping)
🧒2–4 years
- Delayed or unusual speech, or loss of words
- Little interest in playing with other children
- Lining up toys or intense focus on parts of objects
- Big distress with change to routine
- Strong reactions to sounds, textures or lights
🧑4–7 years
- Finding it hard to make or keep friendships
- Taking language very literally
- Deep, focused interests in specific topics
- Difficulty with imaginative or turn-taking play
- Meltdowns when overwhelmed
🎒School age & older
- Struggling with the social “rules” peers pick up
- Anxiety, especially around change
- Preference for routine and predictability
- Sensory sensitivities affecting school or home
- Exhaustion from “masking” to fit in
Every child is different — this list is a guide, not a diagnostic tool. Only a qualified professional (a paediatrician, psychologist, or multidisciplinary assessment team) can diagnose autism. If you have concerns, an early conversation is always worthwhile.
Getting started
When and how to seek an assessment
Trust your instincts — you know your child best, and you don’t need to “wait and see.” Start with your GP or child health nurse, who can refer you to a paediatrician or psychologist for a developmental assessment. A diagnosis can often be made from around age 2, and support can begin even before a formal diagnosis is confirmed.
You don’t need a diagnosis to begin therapy. Under the NDIS early childhood approach, children under 9 can access support based on developmental need, and therapy started early builds the strongest foundations.
How we help
How Daar supports autistic children
Autism support works best when it’s multidisciplinary and built around your child’s goals. Daar’s registered therapists work together — at home, in clinic, at school or via telehealth — and coach families so strategies carry over into everyday life.
Funding
Autism and the NDIS
Autism is a recognised condition under the NDIS, and many autistic children are supported through Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living (therapy) and the early childhood approach. For eligible participants, NDIS-funded therapy is delivered at no out-of-pocket cost. If you’re not sure how your plan works — or you’re just starting the NDIS journey — our team can help you navigate it.
Not sure where to start?
Answer a few quick questions and we’ll match your child with the right support — and our team will be in touch.
Find the right support →FAQ
Frequently asked questions
At what age can autism be diagnosed?
Autism can often be reliably diagnosed from around age 2, though signs may be noticed earlier or later. You don’t need to wait to raise concerns — earlier support leads to better outcomes.
Do we need a diagnosis before starting therapy?
No. Under the NDIS early childhood approach, children under 9 can access support based on developmental need. Many families begin therapy while an assessment is underway.
Is autism therapy covered by the NDIS?
Yes — for eligible participants, therapies such as speech pathology, occupational therapy, behaviour support and psychology are funded under the NDIS, at no out-of-pocket cost.
What therapy helps autistic children the most?
There’s no one-size-fits-all. The most effective support is individualised and often multidisciplinary — commonly speech pathology, occupational therapy and positive behaviour support — coordinated around your child’s goals and strengths.
Will my child grow out of autism?
Autism is lifelong, but it isn’t something to be “fixed.” With the right support, autistic children build communication, confidence and independence and go on to thrive in their own way.
Last reviewed 16 July 2026Reviewed by Daar’s clinical teamGeneral information — not a diagnosis or medical advice
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