In South Australia, the education system is made up of 3 stages – preschool, primary school and secondary school.
Preschool is not compulsory but is recommended to help children develop skills in readiness for primary school. Every South Australian child is entitled to attend preschool. Support is available for children living with disability to attend and engage at preschool in a supportive and appropriate manner. This includes Autistic children.
In South Australia, it is compulsory for all children between the ages of 6 and 16 to attend primary and secondary school. Children can attend a government (public school) or an independent or Catholic school. Some students and their families may elect to engage in alternative schooling, which includes home education and flexible learning options.
School attendance and participation in education is the right of every South Australian child, including Autistic students. The Department for Education offers a variety of programs to support students with diverse needs. In 2023, funding was provided to every South Australian primary school to provide access to an Autism Inclusion Teacher.
To further support Autistic students and their families, the Department for Education offers Respite care for families of children with high ongoing support needs. There is also information available regarding Exemption from school attendance for students who may be unable to attend school full-time.
The Department for Education offers a range of programs to provide support for eligible Autistic students who are enrolled in government schools.