World Autism Awareness Day

World Autism Awareness Day History

World Autism Awareness Day seeks to raise awareness about people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the need for continued improvement in the quality of life for those living with ASD. The day serves as an opportunity for everyone to educate themselves on the realities of autism, to foster acceptance and inclusion, and to challenge misinformation and stereotypes. Importantly, it is also a day to recognise and celebrate the unique talents and skills of those with autism and to reaffirm the rights of individuals with autism to participate fully in all aspects of society.

World Autism Awareness Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2007, with its inaugural observance taking place on 2nd April 2008. For Australians, this day has since carried special significance in promoting understanding and empathy for the roughly 164,000 Australians living with autism, a figure that represents 1 in every 150 people in the nation. Observance of World Autism Awareness Day in Australia also illuminates the broader social, medical and educational support structures required for individuals with autism, as well as their families and caregivers, to truly thrive.

In Australia, World Autism Awareness Day is marked by a variety of activities and initiatives designed to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of people with autism. Events on this day often encompass educational seminars, community workshops, public marches and media campaigns. City landmarks are often illuminated in blue light, symbolising a world that embraces autism. Notably, this observance takes place annually on 2nd April, aligning with global activities and initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive world for those with autism.

Facts about World Autism Awareness Day

• The theme for World Autism Awareness Day in 2024 was Colour.
  In 2023, the theme was Transforming the narrative: Contributions at home, at work, in the arts and in policymaking.
• According to the CDC, around the globe, autism is more common among children born to older parents or those with a family history of the condition.
• Australia marked World Autism Awareness Day in 2011 with the launch of the Autism Opportunity Knocks (AOK) Campaign. The campaign was aimed at increasing awareness and employment opportunities for young adults with autism.
• Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect): Aspect is Australia's leading provider of services for people on the autism spectrum. Established in 1966, Aspect provides information, intervention, and a variety of services to meet the needs of individuals on the spectrum and their families.

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Autism Awareness Day

Top things to do in Australia for World Autism Awareness Day

• Wear blue in order to support World Autism Day. The color blue is internationally recognized as a symbol of support for World Autism Day and it is accompanied by the catchphrase wear blue, April 2.
• Get active on social media by taking a picture of yourself wearing blue and posting it using the hashtags #LIUB (Light it up Blue), #WorldAutismAwarenessDay, #WAD and #autism. You can also turn your profile photo blue on social media by putting a blue frame over it.
• Attend the Melbourne Cricket Ground: The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) often participates in World Autism Awareness Day by lighting up in blue and providing informational resources to those attending events.
• Take part in Go Blue for Autism: Autism Awareness Australia runs the Go Blue for Autism campaign which includes fundraising events like fun runs, walkathons, picnics, and sporting events. They also encourage businesses, schools, and individuals to host their own events to raise awareness.