A GP is often a good place to start, especially if they know you and your history. You may speak with a GP about autism and explore the benefits of assessment. They may then refer you to someone who can conduct assessments, for example a clinical psychologist.

Some private clinicians conduct autism assessments . Sometimes this pathway requires a valid GP referral.

There is usually a cost to be paid for assessments by private clinicians.

Larger clinics may offer multi-disciplinary assessments, whereas some clinics may only offer single clinician led assessments. Many clinics have different levels of clinician experience, cost and waiting times for assessments so it is recommended that these details are checked before booking an assessment.

Depending on individual cover, private health insurance may cover some of the cost of autism assessments.

For individuals aged 25 years or under, Medicare rebatesExternal LinkExternal Link are available to assist with the cost of assessment.

Here are some questions you may ask when exploring a private autism assessment:

• What is your level of experience in conducting autism assessments?
• Who will be conducting the assessment?
• What is the cost of your assessment?
• Am I able to use my private health insurance or Medicare card to reduce the cost?
• Do you have a waiting list for assessment?

The Women's and Children's Hospital (WCH) Child Development Unit (CDU)External LinkExternal Link provides developmental assessment services for eligible children at assessment units located in three major metropolitan hospitals.

• Women’s and Children’s Hospital – Child Development Unit: Phone 08 8161 7287
• Flinders Medical Centre – Child Assessment Team: Phone 08 8204 4433
• Lyell McEwin – Gordon McKay Child Development Unit: Phone 08 7485 4109

To be eligible for this service, children need to present with complex developmental concerns in three or more areas.
For patients with a Medicare card, there is no cost for autism assessments conducted by the WCH CDU. There may be fees for patients who are not eligible for a Medicare card.

Funding of approximately $800,000 to June 2026 from the Government of South Australia will support a free assessment and diagnostic service focused on young people who have exceptional needs, live in at-risk households or are connected with the youth justice system. It is the first time a dedicated service will be available to these groups in South Australia.

Following an open tender process to identify providers with the capacity and skill to help these groups of young people, the Department of Human Services will work with Autism SA, Solasta Wellbeing and Connect Disability Services to deliver the service.

Where a diagnosis is confirmed, the three organisations will support the department to provide appropriate referrals and services which could include access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme or other supports. As with any neurological developmental difference or condition, early identification is an essential first step to accessing effective supports while contributing to a sense of belonging and identity.

For those who are not diagnosed, a report confirming this along with any recommendations including avenues for further investigation will be provided.

The service will be offered across the state so people in Adelaide and rural and regional areas can access it.

Read the full press release here