Teens Work Know-How Program
Our program runs on the financial year.

You can submit your EOI for Round 1 2027!
Timetables Below!

Register here: 

Join Our Teens Work Know-How Program: Your Opportunity to Shine

Are you or someone you know a student, and ready to be supported in taking the next step towards transitioning from School into the Workforce? We’re thrilled to invite you to express your early interest in our Teens Work Know-How Program, running in 2027. This will allow us to showcase community need.

This early application will help us in proactively managing our program to ensure its the best it can be for all, and in our grant applications and advocacy work. Your early efforts are supporting us to keep this program funded, and our community supported. 

Please see below possible dates for the 2027 program!

Why This Program Matters

Our Teens Work Know-How Program is more than just a series of workshops—it’s a community-driven initiative designed to empower neurodiverse teens with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in the workplace. Here’s why this program is crucial:

• Empowering Futures: We provide the tools and support to help neurodiverse teens navigate the professional world with confidence. This program is tailored to highlight and harness their unique strengths. 
  
  
• Building Stronger Communities: By focusing on individual abilities and fostering an inclusive environment, we are building a community where everyone can contribute and succeed.  Jacob, our Program Manager, knows firsthand, "a lot of learning for our cohort is helping them cut through the jargon, explaining the first principles, the Why behind the actions taken, and being able to understand and mentor their curiosity".
  
  
• Advocating for Change: Your involvement helps us collect valuable data that showcases the impact and ROI of neurodiverse talent, how educators and employers can best support, harness and train your talents, and helping all parties understand how the spectrum may speak in a place of work. 
  
  This evidence is critical for securing future funding and expanding our reach and services to community, and more importantly, employers are businesses, this helps us showcase with tangible data, supported by our industry stakeholders, the long-term results of employing our community. The earlier our cohort understand themselves, their place on the spectrum, only then can they support, or be supported
  
  

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in the Teens Work Know-How Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age: Must be within the legal working age of 15- 18 by the time the program round starts.
• School Enrollment: Must be enrolled in secondary school or through the Home Schooling Network (HEN).
• Commitment: Must be able to meet the scheduled requirements of the program.
• School Support: Must have the school’s knowledge and signature for work experience placement to be included as part of the participant's school VET (Vocational Education and Training) learning.

How Your Participation Makes a Difference

1. Early Access: By expressing your interest now, you’ll be prioritized for onboarding in our final round of the current grant extension in 2026.
2. Future Notifications: You’ll be among the first to hear about additional funding and new programs from 2025-2026 if we receive further funding.
3. Program Development: Your early application helps us understand community needs and develop diverse program options, including school curriculum integration, holiday programs, and/ or online courses.

Real Stories, Real Impact

Our program isn’t just about skills; it’s about changing lives. Here is a story from our Team that highlight the social value of our work:

• Community Voices: One of our participants, "Emma", shared how the program helped her build confidence in a way that traditional approaches in school didn’t. She learned to speak to her unique strengths to feel more confident in job interviews and the transition process, understanding that what made her a leader in her basket ball team, and her love for sport, is why she is fit for the role; not because of her Resume. This participant then went off to work in a sports store at DFO.
  
  Another student, "Samantha" also suffered from stress related/undiagnosed tics, something that Jacob, due to his Tourette Syndrome understood the self consciousness of. Both of them, not being around many other "Tickers" connected, this report, this shared understanding, allowed for Sam to take of the mask, to transition from the timid shy girl who came in, feeling like her ticks would make her unable to achieve her goals, to one of the stand out students in our cohort. This preconceived mindset was brought to a halt; when she saw someone, doing exactly what she felted would never be possible. That reprograming of her believes, through seeing it with their own eyes, and being understood, was shared to be more impactful then any information, and a deeply impactful moment for both, and our program so far.  
  

Our ILC Commitment

Since 2019, supported by an ILC grant, we’ve faced challenges but remain dedicated to our mission; to deliver the Teens Work Know-How Program.

Despite the hurdles, including those from COVID-19, we’ve persevered, and pivoted through these challenges with the support of our community and stakeholders.
We continued to focus on leading by example, employing more lived experience team members, and exceeding past outcomes. 

Your participation is key to our success. It allows us to:

• Showcase Unique Talents: Highlight the skills and abilities of neurodiverse teens.
• Secure Essential Funding: Use collected data to advocate for extended or new grants.
• Expand Our Offerings: Create more programs tailored to various needs and preferences.

Register here: 

https://www.aspergersvic.org.au/event-6737513

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AV - Empowering and connecting Neurodiverse Individuals for 33 Year!

AV Privacy Policy

AV Event Terms & Conditions

Partners Group: August - Online Meeting

About our Partners Group

Join our Partners Peer Support Group to meet other adults who are in a relationship with someone who is Autistic or has a similar Neurodivergent profile. Sharing experiences within the safe environment of our peer support meetings can be a lifeline, and sharing with people who have similar lived experience is validating and often educational. Your partner may be self-diagnosed or have a formal diagnosis, and you may share a household or live separately. We are an inclusive group and welcome partners of all genders and relationship types.

This session is facilitated by our Partners Group Leaders. All AV volunteer group leaders share the lived experience of their group participants and welcome new attendees.

Cost: $5 for AV members, $10 for non-members.

Registration is FREE for holders of a +Groups Membership and for first-time attendees. How to access a free first-time attendee ticket for regular peer support groups.

Become an AV member today to access discounted tickets for groups and events, members-only programs and interest groups, and to support the wonderful work our volunteers and staff team do for our community.

If cost is a barrier, please contact our AV admin team or fill out our Hardship Fund application form. 

Anyone wishing to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

For online events, you will need to register to receive the Zoom meeting link.

Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10.

Community Guides (step by step information to support our community)

• How to register for, cancel or view registration details of an AV activity
• How to make a payment for an AV activity registration (includes details for PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options)
• How to access an AV Zoom Activity(includes tips on Zoom etiquette)
• AV Zoom Guide(includes details of in-Zoom features)
• Peer Support Groups - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (includes answers to the most common questions about AV peer support groups).

For assistance or more information

• Call 0480 385 710 or email our AV admin team.
• The AV phone is switched on from 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday.
• Please note that our email inbox is not monitored outside business hours.

AV Privacy Policy

AV Event Terms & Conditions

Module 05 - Understanding Workplaces

We are relaunching the Job Seeker Network & Roadmap

 Autism Valued has launched a new cycle of the AV Job Seeker Network with an enhanced 9-Module Job Seeker Roadmap, a practical, community-led career development program designed for Neurodivergent job seekers.

For more details, click here

Meeting Details

Participants gain access to a 09 module self-paced learning series, alongside monthly Job Seeker Meetings, on the last Friday of every month. that provide space for reflection & questions, regardless of which module someone is currently engaging with.

About This Session

This month’s module focuses on understanding workplace environments and accessibility before accepting a role.

What’s Included

All AV facilitators and volunteers are peers of their group participants and hold a valid Working with Children Check. If you know a child whom could benefit from our sessions, they must be registered by the parents membership, and/ or accompanied by an adult.

Cost and Membership Information

• Free for AV Members 
• $10 for Non-Members

Registered job seekers may be eligible to have their AV membership reimbursed or covered by job-seeking support programs, such as those offered through Disability Employment Services (DES) or NDIS providers. Please contact coordinator@autismvalued.org.au for more details.

AV Membership Benefits

• Access to free tickets for activities, including the AV Job Seeker Network.
• Exclusive access to members-only programs and interest groups.
• Opportunities to support the work AV does for the neurodiverse community.

If cost is a barrier; and you would like to join AV, please contact our admin team for support. 

Registration Guidelines

• Registration is required for all AV activities.
• For online events, you must register to receive the Zoom meeting link.

Community Guides

We’ve created step-by-step guides to make participation easy:

• How to register for an AV activity: View registration details or cancel a registration.
• How to pay for an AV activity registration: Includes details for PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options.
• How to access an AV Zoom Activity: Tips on Zoom etiquette and troubleshooting common issues.
• AV Zoom Guide: Detailed instructions on using in-Zoom features and settings.

These guides are designed to ensure that every participant has a smooth and enjoyable experience.

For Assistance or More Information

Get in Touch

Facilitator (JSN)

Sarah Ballard  jsmoderator@autismvalued.org.au

Programs / Network Manager

Jacob Alan Kness programs@autismvalued.org.au  0427 553 077

General Admin

Admin@autismvalued.org.au   |  0480 385 710

Office Hours

Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm

After-Hours Support

Phone support available 1 hour before and during the first hour of each event Please note emails may not be attended to afterhours

Policies and Terms

• AV Privacy Policy
• AV Event T&Cs

Join the AV Job Seeker Network and take the first step toward meaningful employment, supported by a community that values your unique strengths and potential.

The Rainbow Spectrum Group: August -

In-Person Meeting 

About the Rainbow Spectrum Group

The Rainbow Spectrum Group is a great place to connect with other Autistic adults who are also members of the LGBTQIA+ community to chat about your experiences, share ideas, exchange advice, and support each other. You are also welcome to attend our Adults Group, our Women & Non-Binary Folk Group, our Young Adults Group, or all three!

This month we are going to Royal Saxon in Richmond. 

About our Group Leaders

This session is facilitated by Mark, our Rainbow Spectrum Group Leader and supported by Brooklyn and Amelia.

All AV volunteer group leaders are peers of their group participants and welcome new attendees. All AV group leaders have a Working with Children Check.

Cost: $5 for AV members, $10 for non-members, FREE for holders of a +Groups Membership and for first-time attendees

Community Guide: About our free* first-time attendee ticket

Become an AV member today to access discounted tickets for groups and events, members-only programs, and to support the work our volunteers and staff team do for our community.

If cost is a barrier, please contact Jack or fill out our Hardship Fund application form. 

Venue information

• Royal Saxon - 545 Church St, Richmond VIC 3121
• Royal Saxon Website

• Royal Saxon on Google Maps
• Royal Saxon Menu
• Public transport: East Richmond Train Station (450m), Route 78 Tram Stop (60m), Route 70 Tram Stop (500m).
• Accessibility: Our reserved area is The Laneway, which is accessed by two steps.

Anyone wanting to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

For in-person events, this allows us to ensure that we have enough volunteers attending on the night to support the group, and to ensure that the venue can safely accommodate all attendees.

In the event that the activity is cancelled or transferred to an online meeting, we will only be able to let you know if you have registered.

NB: Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10. Please note that first-time attendee tickets must be requested before the meeting and are not available at the door.

Community Guides (step by step information to support our community)

• Community Guide: How to register for an AV activity, view details of an existing registration, or cancel a registration
  

• Community Guide: How to pay for an AV activity registration (includes details for PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options)

• Peer Support Groups - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (includes answers to the most common questions about AV peer support groups).

For assistance or more information

If you have further questions about the event, about AV, or need assistance with registering, please contact our AV admin team.

• Call 0480 385 710 or email us.

• The AV phone is switched on from 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday.

• Please note that our email inbox is not monitored outside business hours.

AV Privacy Policy

AV Event T&Cs

Teens Hub: August

- Online Meeting via Discord

About our Group

Our Teens group celebrates Autistic and other similar Neurodivergent teens. It provides a fun and inclusive environment, for these teens to to meet and hang out to play games or chat, with people that have a similar life experience. At our online meetings, the Teens meet via Discord, and each Teen must be supervised by a parent or carer when accessing the Discord server. 

The Teens Team:

• Callan T, Callan B, Amelia, Shannen - Volunteer Mentors

Volunteers needed

We’re looking for volunteers aged 18 and older to help out as Teens Mentors. If you’re interested, please complete our online volunteer application or contact AV admin for more information.

Cost: $5 for AV members, $10 for non-members. FREE for +Groups membership holders and first-time attendees.

Community Guide: About our free* first-time attendee ticket

Become an AV member today to access discounted tickets for activities, members-only programs and interest groups, and to support the work our AV team does for our community.

If cost is a barrier, please contact our AV admin team or fill out our Hardship Fund application form. 

Anyone wishing to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

For online events, you will need to register to receive the Zoom meeting link / Discord link. First-time attendee tickets must be requested at least 24 hours before the meeting.

NB: Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10.

How to register

- In the first section, enter the details of the teen attending.

- In the second section, enter the details of the parent / carer / support worker who will be at the same address as the teen.

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The Late Discovered Group: August

- In-Person Meeting

About the Late Discovered Group

This peer support group is a welcoming space for Autistic adults who were diagnosed later in life or discovered their Autism on their own. Many of us grew up feeling “different” without having the language or support to understand why. This group exists to honour those experiences and offer connection, validation, and community with others who truly get it.

Together, we share stories, reflect on identity, unlearn harmful narratives, and explore what autism means for us now—in relationships, work, mental health, and everyday life. There’s no pressure to mask, explain yourself, or have everything figured out. You can listen, talk, stim, ramble, be quiet, laugh, or process at your own pace. This is a judgment-free, neurodiversity-affirming space where late discovery is not a deficit, but a meaningful part of your story. 

The Late Discovered group is a parent/carer free zone - parents/carers of attendees are invited to join our separate Parents & Carers Group instead. (Autistic adults who are also parents or carers are most welcome.)

Volunteers welcome

If you’re interested in volunteering to help make this, or any of our other groups happen, please complete our online volunteer application or contact AV admin for more information.

About our Group Leaders

All AV volunteer group leaders are peers of their group participants and welcome new attendees. All AV group leaders have a Working with Children Check.

Venue Information

• The Victoria Hotel - 188 Hyde St, Yarraville VIC 3013
• The Victoria Hotel Website
• The Victoria Hotel on Google Maps
• The Victoria Hotel Menu
• Public Transport: Yarraville Train Station (700m). 409 Bus (100m). A large car park is available at the rear of the venue. 
• Accessibility: The venue  fully accessible and accessible toilets are available.

Please Note:  All attendees are required to pay for their own food and drinks. 

Cost: $5 for AV members, $10 for non-members. FREE for holders of a +Groups Membership and first-time attendees.

Community Guide: About our free* first-time attendee ticket

Become an AV member today to access discounted tickets for activities, members-only programs and interest groups, and to support the work our AV team does for our community.

If cost is a barrier, please contact our AV admin team.

Anyone wishing to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10.

Community Guides (step by step information to support our community)

• How to register for an AV activity, view or cancel a registration. 

• How to pay for an AV activity registration (includes PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options)

• Peer Support Groups - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (includes answers to the most common questions about AV peer support groups).

For assistance or more information

• Call 0480 385 710 or email our AV admin team.

• The AV phone is switched on from 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday.

• Please note that our email inbox is not monitored outside business hours.

AV Privacy Policy

AV Event T&Cs

Parents & Carers Group: August

- Online Meeting

About the Parents & Carers Group

Are you a parent/carer of someone who is Autistic or similarly Neurodivergent? Do you want to meet people who share similar experiences with you?

The group meets monthly, acting as an opportunity to chat, share advice, and discuss among people with similar-lived experience.

This is an online peer support meeting open to all parents and carers (including Autistic parents/carers) of Autistic children, teens and adults to meet, chat, exchange ideas and find support

Our Peer Support Groups are volunteer led by those with lived experience who are peers of the groups they lead.

About our Group Leaders

Our Parents & Carers Group Leaders are Toni, Sue, Lucy, Adriana and Karen. 

All AV volunteer group leaders share the lived experience of their group participants and welcome new attendees. All AV group leaders have a Working with Children Check.

Cost: $5 for AV members, $10 for non-members. FREE for +Groups membership holders and first-time attendees.

Community Guide: About our free* first-time attendee ticket

Become an AV member today to access discounted tickets for activities, members-only programs and interest groups, and to support the work our AV team does for our community.

If cost is a barrier, please contact our AV admin team or fill out our Hardship Fund application form. 

Anyone wishing to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

For online events, you will need to register to receive the Zoom meeting link. First-time attendee tickets must be requested at least 24 hours before the meeting.

NB: Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10.

Community Guides (step by step information to support our community)

• How to register for an AV activity, view registration details, or cancel a registration 

• How to pay for an AV activity registration (includes details for PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options)

• How to access an AV Zoom Activity (includes tips on Zoom etiquette)

• AV Zoom Guide(includes details of in-Zoom features)

• Peer Support Groups - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (includes answers to the most common questions about AV peer support groups).

For assistance or more information

• Call 0480 385 710 or email our AV admin team.

• The AV phone is switched on from 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday.

• Please note that our email inbox is not monitored outside business hours.

AV Privacy Policy

AV Event Terms & Conditions

Adults Group: August

- In-Person Meeting

About the Adults Group

Our Adults Group is for older members of the Autistic community and those with other similar neurodivergent profiles. It is more suitable for those who are aged 35 years and over, although younger adults are welcome to join in. (Young adults may prefer to attend our Young Adults group meetings as well as or instead of this group.)

This month we will be discussing: Being your True Self and Keeping Friends

The Adults Group is a parent/carer free zone - we ask that parents / carers of attendees join our separate Parents & Carers Group instead.

(Autistic adults who are also parents or carers are most welcome to attend independently of the person they care for.)

Volunteers needed

We’re looking for a volunteer Group Assistant to support our Group Leader and help to run the group. If you’re interested, please complete our online volunteer application or contact AV admin for more information.

About our Group Leaders

All AV volunteer group leaders share the lived experience of their group participants and welcome new attendees. All AV group leaders have a Working with Children Check.

Cost: $10 for AV members, $15 for non-members, FREE for holders of a +Groups Membership and for first-time attendees

Community Guide: About our free* first-time attendee ticket

Become an AV member to access discounted tickets for groups and events, members-only programs, and to support the work our volunteers and staff team do for our community.

If cost is a barrier, contact AV Admin or fill out our Hardship Fund application. 

Venue information

• Power Neighbourhood House - 54 Power Avenue, Ashwood, 3145
• Power Neighbourhood House website
• Power Neighbourhood House on Google Maps
• Public transport: Holmesglen Station (700m). 624 bus (stops outside). On-street parking.
• Accessibility: Ramp access at front and rear, accessible bathroom.

Anyone wanting to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

For in-person events, this allows us to ensure that we have enough volunteers attending on the night to support the group, and to ensure that the venue can safely accommodate all attendees.

In the event that the activity is cancelled or transferred to an online meeting, we will only be able to let you know if you have registered.

NB: Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10. Please note that first-time attendee tickets must be requested before the meeting and are not available at the door.

Community Guides (step by step information to support our community)

• Community Guide: How to register for an AV activity, view details of an existing registration, or cancel a registration
  

• Community Guide: How to pay for an AV activity registration (includes details for PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options)

• Peer Support Groups - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (includes answers to the most common questions about AV peer support groups).

For assistance or more information

If you have further questions about the event, about AV, or need assistance with registering, please contact our AV admin team.

• Call 0480 385 710 or email us.

• Please note that our email inbox is not monitored outside business hours.

AV Privacy Policy

AV Event T&Cs

Adults Group: August

- Online Meeting

About the Adults Group

Our Adults Group is for older members of the Autistic community and those with other similar neurodivergent profiles. It is more suitable for those who are aged 35 years and over, although younger adults are welcome to join in. (Young adults may prefer to attend our Young Adults group meetings as well as or instead of this group.) 

This month we will be talking about: Being Your True Self and Keeping Friends

The Adults Group is a parent/carer free zone - parents/carers of attendees are invited to join our separate Parents & Carers Group instead. (Autistic adults who are also parents or carers are most welcome.)

This meeting will be online via Zoom. We have included more information about Zoom and how to access the meeting below.

Volunteers needed

We’re looking for a volunteer Group Assistant to support our Group Leader and help to run the group. If you’re interested, please complete our online volunteer application or contact AV admin for more information.

About our Group Leaders

All AV volunteer group leaders are peers of their group participants and welcome new attendees. All AV group leaders have a Working with Children Check.

Cost: $5 for AV members, $10 for non-members. FREE for holders of a +Groups Membership and first-time attendees.

Community Guide: About our free* first-time attendee ticket

Become an AV member today to access discounted tickets for activities, members-only programs and interest groups, and to support the work our AV team does for our community.

If cost is a barrier, please contact our AV admin team.

Anyone wishing to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

For online events, you need to register to receive the Zoom meeting link.

Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10.

Community Guides (step by step information to support our community)

• How to register for an AV activity, view registration details, or cancel a registration

• How to pay for an AV activity registration (includes details for PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options)

• How to access an AV Zoom Activity (includes tips on Zoom etiquette)

• AV Zoom Guide(includes details of in-Zoom features)

• Peer Support Groups - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (includes answers to the most common questions about AV peer support groups).

For assistance or more information

• Call 0480 385 710 or email our AV admin team.

• The AV phone is switched on from 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday.

• Please note that our email inbox is not monitored outside business hours.

AV Privacy Policy

AV Event T&Cs

The Late Discovered Group (East): August

- In-Person Meeting 

About the Late Discovered Group

This peer support group is a welcoming space for Autistic adults who were diagnosed later in life or discovered their Autism on their own. Many of us grew up feeling “different” without having the language or support to understand why. This group exists to honour those experiences and offer connection, validation, and community with others who truly get it.

Together, we share stories, reflect on identity, unlearn harmful narratives, and explore what autism means for us now—in relationships, work, mental health, and everyday life. There’s no pressure to mask, explain yourself, or have everything figured out. You can listen, talk, stim, ramble, be quiet, laugh, or process at your own pace. This is a judgment-free, neurodiversity-affirming space where late discovery is not a deficit, but a meaningful part of your story. 

This meeting will be held at Royal Saxon in Richmond.

The Late Discovered group is a parent/carer free zone - parents/carers of attendees are invited to join our separate Parents & Carers Group instead. (Autistic adults who are also parents or carers are most welcome.)

Volunteers welcome

If you’re interested in volunteering to help make this, or any of our other groups happen, please complete our online volunteer application or contact AV admin for more information.

About our Group Leaders

All AV volunteer group leaders are peers of their group participants and welcome new attendees. All AV group leaders have a Working with Children Check.

Venue Information

• Royal Saxon - 545 Church St, Richmond VIC 3121
• Royal Saxon Website

• Royal Saxon on Google Maps
• Royal Saxon Menu
• Public transport: East Richmond Train Station (450m), Route 78 Tram Stop (60m), Route 70 Tram Stop (500m).
• Accessibility: Our reserved area is The Laneway, which is accessed by two steps.

Please Note:  All attendees are required to pay for their own food and drinks. 

Cost: $5 for AV members, $10 for non-members. FREE for holders of a +Groups Membership and first-time attendees.

Community Guide: About our free* first-time attendee ticket

Become an AV member today to access discounted tickets for activities, members-only programs and interest groups, and to support the work our AV team does for our community.

If cost is a barrier, please contact our AV admin team.

Anyone wishing to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10.

Community Guides (step by step information to support our community)

• How to register for an AV activity, view or cancel a registration. 

• How to pay for an AV activity registration (includes PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options)

• Peer Support Groups - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (includes answers to the most common questions about AV peer support groups).

For assistance or more information

• Call 0480 385 710 or email our AV admin team.

• The AV phone is switched on from 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday.

• Please note that our email inbox is not monitored outside business hours.

AV Privacy Policy

AV Event T&Cs

AV Career Network Touchstone

Support That Helps People Work Better

Session 5 of 9 · Thursday 27 August 2026, 6:00–7:00 PM AEST .
Free for AV members · $10 for non-members.

In Short

This month's Touchstone continues the conversation from The World of Work episode "Adjustments as Performance Enhancers". A community conversation about the supports, structures and conditions that help people work, study, volunteer or participate better.

What This Session Is About

Many supports called “adjustments” are examples of good work design: clear expectations, prioritisation, reduced friction, protected focus, recovery and better communication.

This is a community listening space, not a lecture. We want to hear directly from autistic, ADHD and neurodivergent people, families, workers, jobseekers, employers and supporters. What you share may help shape future episodes, workshops, employer education and advocacy work.

What Is a Touchstone Meeting? — and Why We Capture It

A Touchstone meeting is a structured, regularly scheduled check-in designed to foster connection, alignment and communication — a model commonly used in relationships, education and community-building.

At AV, our Touchstone discussions are exactly that, but with a specific purpose: this isn't a companion event to the podcast, it's where the community actually shapes what comes next. Each session exists to capture real, lived-experience discourse around that month's episode topic, so it can directly inform future episodes, workshops, employer education and advocacy work.

That includes hearing from people who listened to the episode beforehand and want to respond directly, as well as anyone coming to the topic fresh — both are equally valuable. If something you say tonight shapes a future episode or a piece of advocacy, that's the point, not a side effect.

We use AI-assisted capture during the facilitated conversation — not a video recording. That means the discussion itself is analysed for themes and insights, but no video or audio of you is published as footage. Jacob will always name the capture window clearly when it starts and stops, so you always know when it's active.

How this connects forward

As the podcast continues, these discussions align directly with each episode, forming a continuous loop: Episode → Community Reflection → Insight → Action.

This Month's Podcast Anchor

This Touchstone is built around the World of Work episode "Adjustments as Performance Enhancers", with Leslie Clements. Listening before you attend makes the conversation richer, but it isn't required.

Full episode hub: https://podcast.autismvalued.org.au

Listen on: Apple Podcasts · Spotify · YouTube · Amazon Music · RSS feed

Or search "World of Work" in your preferred podcast app.

Your Facilitators

• Jacob Alan Kness — Programs Manager, Autism Valued Inc. · Session host and room manager

• Xavier Gunn — Founding Data Scientist, Minikai · Session facilitator

Before You Attend

Please read the Participant Guide before the session. It covers the run sheet, our shared group agreements, ways to take part, and this month's discussion questions in full, so we can spend our time together in conversation rather than reading through slides.

Download: AV Touchstone — August Participant Guide (PDF) 

Access and Inclusion

• Cameras and microphones are optional throughout the session.

• The Zoom chat is always available for people who prefer to participate in writing.

• Sessions run to a clear structure and time, and stick to it.

• If you have any access needs we should know about before the day, contact us at programs@autismvalued.org.au and we'll make it work.

Who Should Come

• Autistic, ADHD and neurodivergent workers, jobseekers and community members

• Family members and supporters

• Employers, managers, and HR or People & Culture professionals

• Practitioners, educators and disability employment services

Continue the Conversation

The conversation doesn't stop when the Zoom call ends.

Join the AV Career Network LinkedIn group to keep reflecting, share resources, and expand on what's raised in the session.

Questions? Contact programs@autismvalued.org.au and we'll make sure your voice is in the room.

AV Membership Benefits

• Access to free tickets for activities, including the AV Job Seeker Network.
• Exclusive access to members-only programs and interest groups.
• Opportunities to support the work AV does for the neurodiverse community.

If cost is a barrier; and you would like to join AV, please contact our admin team for support. 

Registration Guidelines

• Registration is required for all AV activities.
• For online events, you must register to receive the Zoom meeting link.

Community Guides

We’ve created step-by-step guides to make participation easy:

• How to register for an AV activity: View registration details or cancel a registration.
• How to pay for an AV activity registration: Includes details for PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options.
• How to access an AV Zoom Activity: Tips on Zoom etiquette and troubleshooting common issues.
• AV Zoom Guide: Detailed instructions on using in-Zoom features and settings.

These guides are designed to ensure that every participant has a smooth and enjoyable experience.

For Assistance or More Information

Get in Touch

Programs / Network Manager

Jacob Alan Kness programs@autismvalued.org.au  0427 553 077

General Admin

Admin@autismvalued.org.au   |  0480 385 710

Office Hours

Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm

After-Hours Support

Phone support available 1 hour before and during the first hour of each event Please note emails may not be attended to afterhours

Policies and Terms

• AV Privacy Policy
• AV Event T&Cs

Young Adults Group: August

- Online Meeting

About our Group

Our Young Adults Group is a great place for Autistic and other similar Neurodivergent profile adults aged 18 years - 35 years to meet, chat, and play games with no social pressure. As this is a parent/carer-free zone, we invite any parents or carers to attend our separate Parents & Carers group.

The session is facilitated by the Young Adult team:

• Matthew - YA Group Leader
• Cal, Brooklyn, Tim, Todd, Corey, Lyndel, Alex - YA Mentors

All AV volunteer group leaders are peers of their group participants and welcome new attendees. All AV volunteers have a Working with Children Check.

Cost: $5 for AV members, $10 for non-members. FREE for holders of a +Groups Membership and first-time attendees.

Community Guide: About our free* first-time attendee ticket

Become an AV member today to access discounted tickets for activities, members-only programs and interest groups, and to support the work our AV team does for our community.

If cost is a barrier, please contact our AV admin team or fill out our Hardship Fund application. 

Anyone wishing to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

For online events, attendees must register to receive a Zoom meeting link. First-time attendee tickets must be requested at least 24 hours before the meeting. 

NB: Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10.

Community Guides (step by step information to support our community)

• How to register for an AV activity, view registration details, or cancel a registration
• How to pay for an AV activity registration (includes details for PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options)
• How to access an AV Zoom Activity(includes tips on Zoom etiquette)
• AV Zoom Guide(includes details of in-Zoom features)
• Peer Support Groups - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (includes answers to the most common questions about AV peer support groups).

For assistance or more information

• Call 0480 385 710 or email our AV admin team.

• The AV phone is switched on from 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday.

• Please note that our email inbox is not monitored outside business hours.

AV Privacy Policy

AV Event T&Cs

Module 06 - Personal Value & Skills

We are relaunching the Job Seeker Network & Roadmap

 Autism Valued has launched a new cycle of the AV Job Seeker Network with an enhanced 9-Module Job Seeker Roadmap, a practical, community-led career development program designed for Neurodivergent job seekers.

For more details, click here

Meeting Details

Participants gain access to a 09 module self-paced learning series, alongside monthly Job Seeker Meetings, on the last Friday of every month. that provide space for reflection & questions, regardless of which module someone is currently engaging with.

About This Session

Personal Value & Skills explores how to identify and communicate your strengths, transferable skills and unique value in the workplace. Participants will use practical tools to connect their experiences, skills and career goals, while building confidence in presenting themselves to employers and making informed disclosure decisions.

What’s Included

All AV facilitators and volunteers are peers of their group participants and hold a valid Working with Children Check. If you know a child whom could benefit from our sessions, they must be registered by the parents membership, and/ or accompanied by an adult.

Cost and Membership Information

• Free for AV Members 
• $10 for Non-Members

Registered job seekers may be eligible to have their AV membership reimbursed or covered by job-seeking support programs, such as those offered through Disability Employment Services (DES) or NDIS providers. Please contact coordinator@autismvalued.org.au for more details.

AV Membership Benefits

• Access to free tickets for activities, including the AV Job Seeker Network.
• Exclusive access to members-only programs and interest groups.
• Opportunities to support the work AV does for the neurodiverse community.

If cost is a barrier; and you would like to join AV, please contact our admin team for support. 

Registration Guidelines

• Registration is required for all AV activities.
• For online events, you must register to receive the Zoom meeting link.

Community Guides

We’ve created step-by-step guides to make participation easy:

• How to register for an AV activity: View registration details or cancel a registration.
• How to pay for an AV activity registration: Includes details for PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options.
• How to access an AV Zoom Activity: Tips on Zoom etiquette and troubleshooting common issues.
• AV Zoom Guide: Detailed instructions on using in-Zoom features and settings.

These guides are designed to ensure that every participant has a smooth and enjoyable experience.

For Assistance or More Information

Get in Touch

Facilitator (JSN)

Sarah Ballard  jsmoderator@autismvalued.org.au

Programs / Network Manager

Jacob Alan Kness programs@autismvalued.org.au  0427 553 077

General Admin

Admin@autismvalued.org.au   |  0480 385 710

Office Hours

Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm

After-Hours Support

Phone support available 1 hour before and during the first hour of each event Please note emails may not be attended to afterhours

Policies and Terms

• AV Privacy Policy
• AV Event T&Cs

Join the AV Job Seeker Network and take the first step toward meaningful employment, supported by a community that values your unique strengths and potential.

Teens Group: August - In-Person Meeting 

About our Group

Our Teens group is for teens with Autistic teens, and those with a similar Neurodivergent profile to meet and hang out to play games or chat while their parents / carers meet in another room at the same venue to chat, provide support and share ideas and advice.

• Teens will be supervised by our Teens Mentors.
• In another room at the same venue, parents will be met by our Parents Contact to chat and exchange experiences.

The Teens Team:

• Callan B, Amelia, Shannen - Volunteer Mentors

• Callan T - Parent Contact

Volunteers needed

We’re looking for volunteers aged 18 and older to help out as Teens Mentors so we can continue to run in-person activities. If you’re interested, please complete our online volunteer application or contact AV admin for more information.

All AV volunteer group leaders share the lived experience of their group participants and welcome new attendees. All AV volunteers have a Working with Children Check.

Each teen must be accompanied by one parent or carer.

A parent or carer must attend with their teen and must remain on site for the duration of the activity.

We understand that another parent or family member may wish to join the activity, however we can only accommodate one adult per registered teen, and we are unable to accommodate additional adults on the night.

Cost: $5 for members, $10 for non-members, FREE for +Groups membership holders and first-time attendees.

Community Guide: About our free* first-time attendee ticket

Become an AV member today to access discounted tickets, members-only programs and interest groups, and to support the work our AV team does for our community.

If cost is a barrier, please contact our AV admin team or fill out our Hardship Fund application form. 

Venue Information

Power Neighbourhood House - 54 Power Avenue, Ashwood, 3145

Power Neighbourhood House website

Power Neighbourhood House on Google Maps

Public transport: Holmesglen Station (700m). 624 bus (stops outside). On-street parking.

Accessibility: Ramp access at front and rear, accessible bathroom.

Anyone wishing to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

For in-person events, this allows us to ensure that we have enough volunteers attending on the night to support the group, and to ensure that the venue can safely accommodate all attendees.

In the event that the activity is cancelled or transferred to an online meeting, we will only be able to let you know if you have registered. First-time attendee tickets must be requested at least 24 hours before the meeting. 

NB: Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10.

How to register

- In the first section, enter the details of the teen attending.

- In the second section, enter the details of the parent / carer / support worker who will be attending with the teen.

Partners Group: September - In-Person Meeting

(New Location - Ashburton Community Centre)

About our Partners Group

Join our Partners Peer Support Group to meet other adults who are in a relationship with someone who is Autistic, or has a similar Neurodivergent profile. Sharing experiences within the safe environment of our peer support meetings can be a lifeline, and sharing with people who have similar lived experience is validating and often educational. Your partner may be self-diagnosed or have a formal diagnosis, and you may share a household or live separately. We are an inclusive group and welcome partners of all genders and relationship types.

This session is facilitated by our Partners Group Leaders. All AV volunteer group leaders share the lived experience of their group participants and welcome new attendees.

Cost: $5 for AV members, $10 for non-members.

Registration is FREE for holders of a +Groups Membership and for first-time attendees. How to access a free first-time attendee ticket for regular peer support groups.

Become an AV member today to access discounted tickets for groups and events, members-only programs and interest groups, and to support the wonderful work our volunteers and staff team do for our community.

If cost is a barrier, please contact our AV admin team or fill out our Hardship Fund application form. 

Venue information

• Ashburton Community Centre - Ashburton Community Centre Website
• Ashburton Community Centre on Google Maps
• Public Transport: Route 734 Bus stop: 100m, Ashburton Train Station: 500m, Alamein Train Station: 850m
• Parking: Car park available opposite centre on Highgate Grove. 
• Accessibility: Ramp access at main and rear, accessible bathroom.

Anyone wishing to attend an AV activity must register before attending.

Unregistered attendees may incur an admin fee of up to $10.

Community Guides (step by step information to support our community)

• How to register for, cancel or view registration details of an AV activity
• How to make a payment for an AV activity registration (includes details for PayPal, credit card, and bank transfer options)
• Peer Support Groups - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (includes answers to the most common questions about AV peer support groups).

For assistance or more information

• Call 0480 385 710 or email our AV admin team.
• The AV phone is switched on from 9am to 5pm, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday.
• Please note that our email inbox is not monitored outside business hours.

AV Privacy Policy

AV Event Terms & Conditions