Half* of Australians surveyed recently have limited to no understanding of autism. With more than 675,000 Australians on the autism spectrum, we must all take an active role in spreading the word, sharing people’s stories and changing perceptions in order to create a more inclusive Australia.
This year, the World Autism Awareness Day theme is ‘Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value’, highlighting and affirming the dignity and worth of all autistic people in a time when misinformation and stereotypes are rife.
We spoke to Aruma Human Rights Advisory Committee member and participant, James McCoy and asked him to share his views as someone with lived experience on what he would like non-autistic people to know.
Here’s what he said:
“Autism has always existed and isn’t some new trendy thing.”
“My ability to be independent/function or “adult” changes depending on the day, situation as well as my mood and energy levels.”
“While on the topic of ability to “function” or be independent, many autistic people who may seem generally independent have needed a lot of support to reach this point. What I am getting at is to not put a “less capable” person in the “too hard” basket and think that they won’t or can’t achieve anything with their lives.”
“Please believe me when I say that I am autistic, even if I don’t meet what you expect of what Autism looks like, especially if your idea is based on your family member or any media representation.”
About James
In 2013, James’ Support Manager suggested he apply to become a Peer Mentor, James jumped at the chance and has been working ever since. An Aruma Human Rights Advisory Committee member, James provides an autistic lived experience at Aruma to help advocate for the rights of people with disability and see them lead their best lives. He is particularly passionate about the voting rights of people with disability, and ensuring that they have accessible information and support to make informed decisions and have their voices heard. This work has involved speaking at conferences as well as with politicians and in the media.
James was a guest recently on podcast – ‘Talk all Things with JP’ where he spoke about his advocacy work, his work with Aruma, what changes he would like to see in the world and what his ‘best life’ looks like. You can listen to the podcast here.
How can you show your support
- Education is key – Join the UN World Autism Awareness Day virtual event World Autism Awareness Day – EN | United Nations
- By stepping up and walking 7km steps a day this May, you will be helping initiate positive change so those on the autism spectrum feel accepted and understood. Register here Walk for Autism : Home
More resources
- Questions you always wanted to ask a person with autism | Aruma
- Myths about autism spectrum disorder | Aruma
*YouGov Poll February 2025
