Australian Autism ADHD Foundation
Supporting independent research, education and advocacy to improve understanding of autism and ADHD.
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Autism and ADHD: A Slow Motion Catastrophe. Why Are Diagnoses Increasing?
In 2003, about 30,400 Australians had a diagnosis of autism. By 2022 this had risen to about 290,900, or 1.1% of the population (ABS).
In the United States, about 1 in 31 eight-year-old children now has an autism diagnosis (CDC, 2025).
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions of childhood.
Researchers are still working to understand why diagnoses have risen. Broader diagnostic criteria and greater awareness explain part of the increase, and more research is needed.
With each affected child, parents, siblings and close family are also affected, profoundly and in ways that only those who live through it can understand.
The Foundation's objectives
- The Foundation was formed by a group of health professionals and scientists who want to better understand the causes of autism and ADHD. We aim to:
- Raise funds for independent, ethics-approved research into autism and ADHD.
- Support research into how genetic and environmental factors may interact in autism and ADHD.
- Share the findings of published research with families, educators, health professionals and policy makers.
- Advocate for government policy and funding that improve research and access to services.
- Work towards a research and education centre for autism and ADHD, in partnership with universities.
- Help families find reliable information and connect with qualified, independent services.
We rely on donations to fund research that is not otherwise being done. Please consider making a contribution.
Advocacy
The Foundation advocates for more research funding, fairer access to assessment and support, and clear evidence-based information on autism and ADHD in Australia. Read More
Research
We have sponsored the publication of a number of studies in scientific journals and at conferences. Read about the published studies and the research the Foundation supports. Read More
Supporting Families
How the Foundation helps families of children with autism and ADHD find reliable information about support and funding in Australia, and how to choose a provider. Read More
Education
Free, evidence-based information about autism and ADHD for parents, educators and health professionals, with links to the original research. Read More
Research Centre
The Foundation's long-term goal: a dedicated research and education centre for autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions, bringing together universities and researchers. Read More
Supporting research into Autism and ADHD
Better understanding through research
The Foundation supports ethics-approved research into autism and ADHD, carried out by qualified researchers. When studies are seeking participants, details will be posted on this website.
To find out more, please see our research.
Help us fund research into autism and ADHD
The Foundation relies on donations to support independent research, education and advocacy. Every gift, large or small, makes a difference. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.