Stronger business starts with inclusive hiring: New resource empowers employers to harness the benefits of a neurodiverse workforce

A groundbreaking new resource is set to transform recruitment practices across Australia by empowering employers to adopt more inclusive hiring strategies—leveling the playing field for neurodivergent job seekers.

Despite the immense value neurodivergent individuals bring to the workplace, traditional hiring methods often overlook their skills and capabilities. As a result, autistic individuals experience an unemployment rate of 18.2%—six times higher than the general population.

To close this gap, Autism SA has launched Neuro-inclusive Recruiting, a free online resource designed to foster a more inclusive and dynamic hiring process while providing employers with a competitive advantage.

“As an employer I believe and have seen that supporting neurodiversity isn’t just about being inclusive, it’s good for business. It attracts a wider talent pool, boosts innovation, improves employee well-being, and reduces costs. In short, it strengthens your employer brand and builds a successful work environment.” says Chrissie, a National Advisory Group member of the project.

The Business Case for Neurodiverse Hiring
Research shows that companies with neurodiverse teams experience:

  • Up to a 30% increase in productivity
  • A 20% rise in innovation
  • Double the likelihood of meeting or exceeding financial targets

“It’s not just for us who are neurodivergent, it’s actually for everyone, because accessibility benefits everyone,” says Khadija Gbla, a neurodivergent award-winning speaker and human rights activist. “Neuro-inclusive workplaces should be the default”.

 

image of 3 people talking in a corporate setting

 

Addressing Barriers in Traditional Hiring
Many neurodivergent job seekers struggle with conventional recruitment methods, which often fail to highlight their skills and potential.
Zoran, a neurodivergent employee, explains, “I find the traditional recruitment process, in which you go in and present your resume, you answer a bunch of questions in an interview format, really doesn’t work for me. But demonstrating my work does and has got me employment repeatedly.”
Neuro-inclusive Recruiting provides employers with practical guidance on improving every stage of recruitment—from job descriptions and interviews to onboarding and ongoing support.

A Game-Changing Resource for Employers
“Neuro-inclusive Recruiting marks an essential shift in how hiring is approached. By changing traditional practices, organisations can drive greater innovation, performance, and inclusivity. At the same time, removing barriers for neurodivergent job seekers enables everyone to contribute to Australia’s vibrant workforce.”
— Niki Welz, Project Manager

Developed over two and a half years, this co-designed resource was created by a neurodiverse team at Autism SA, with guidance from three National Advisory Groups consisting of employers and neurodivergent individuals. The project is backed by extensive research and collaboration with national stakeholders.

 

Explore the Free Resource: Neuro-Inclusive Recruiting
Today, Autism SA proudly announces the launch of its free online resource: Neuro-inclusive Recruiting.
Funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Social Services, this platform equips employers, HR professionals, and business leaders with the tools they need to recruit, engage, and support neurodivergent employees successfully.
With 15–20% of Australians identifying as neurodivergent, this resource aims to break down barriers in traditional hiring practices and create more inclusive, effective workplaces.

What’s Included?

  • The Value of Neurodiversity in the Workplace – Understanding the strengths and contributions of neurodivergent employees.
  • Creating a More Neuro-Inclusive Workplace – Steps to make your organisation more welcoming and supportive.
  • Improving Your Recruitment Process – Strategies to attract and hire the right candidates.
  • Onboarding New Staff Effectively – Ensuring employees feel welcomed and supported from day one.
  • Supporting Your Workforce for Long-Term Success – Keeping employees engaged and enabling them to thrive.
  • Practical Resources – Access, download, and use templates and tools today!

This resource is free, featuring personal stories from both employers and employees, as well as downloadable templates to help organisations implement effective, neuro-inclusive hiring strategies.

 

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Image of someone using Neuro-inclusive Recruiting on a laptop