For neurodiverse Data Analyst, Harrison Robb, finding an employer willing to adapt to his unique needs hasn’t been easy.

But since becoming employed at Australian Spatial Analytics, that’s all changed.

“ASA has been the one employer I've ever had who has been willing to listen to requests for accommodations in the work place and act upon them, as well as to provide support for their analysts mental health,” Robb said.

“Be it dimming or removing a lightbulb, encouraging the use of headphones or ear plugs to aid with auditory hypersensitivity and enabling remote work for those who would otherwise have difficulty being in or travelling to an office.”

ASA is Australia’s largest and fastest-growing work-integrated not-for-profit social enterprises, providing young neurodivergent adults, including autistic people, with data careers.

Since 2020, ASA has provided careers in the geospatial and engineering professions for over 150 young neurodivergent adults who may otherwise be unemployed. Currently 80 per cent of ASA employees are neurodivergent.

Neurodivergent people also experience higher rates of mental ill health, including anxiety and depression,” said Chief People Officer, Samantha Garbutt.

“Stress and anxiety are two of the most common challenges for autistic people, with 47 per cent falling into the severe anxiety category.

Environmental, social and sensory stressors are some of the challenges preventing neurodivergent individuals from securing and maintaining employment, along with previous negative workplace experiences.

“Autistic burnout in the workplace can be related to them ‘masking’ or hiding their autism and unsupportive workplaces not making the minor adjustments needed for them to thrive.

“Masking, chronic people-pleasing, ignoring needs as an autistic person, pushing through pain and discomfort, or not taking ample amounts of time to rest and recover are major contributing factors to burnout.”

With a strong focus on mental health in a neurodiverse workforce, ASA implements wellbeing coaching, mental health support, and community engagement activities at each location. 

“This comprehensive approach creates a supportive and inclusive workplace culture, emphasising employees' holistic development and satisfaction and the growth of high-functioning work teams,” said Garbutt.

“At ASA, we see ourselves as one of four support pillars – Work, Family, Community and Professionals. When they join us as a data analyst, we provide a supportive workplace, including environmental and management adjustments.”

Each workplace also features a dedicated People Success Officer (PSO) onsite. With a focus on life skills coaching, mentoring, and personal development, PSOs support all staff, but focus on neurodivergent employees, to ensure the entire
team feel comfortable, capable and included.

“When dealing with mental health issues, our PSOs talk to our staff in a designated space to discuss individual needs and suggest management strategies or external referrals where needed. This holistic approach helps our people do well in the workplace and personal lives.”

For Robb, the guidance of the PSOs has been invaluable.

“The willingness to provide support and to listen has overall aided my mental, and physical, wellbeing at work, which in turn has meant less stress carried over into my personal life.”