Full Guide to Autism Tests in Australia: Available Tests, Where to Get Tested, Procedure Flowchart, FAQs & Resources
TL;DR: Autism Tests in Australia
Key Autism Tests
- ADOS-2: Gold-standard observational assessment (all ages)
- ADI-R: In-depth parent/caregiver interview (all ages)
- ABAS-3: Adaptive skills assessment
- SACS-R: Early childhood screening (best for ages 12–36 months)
- Other: Autism Quotient (AQ), RAADS–R, Aspie Quiz (screening/self-report, not diagnostic)
Where to Get Tested
- Public health services (may have waitlists, often free)
- Private clinics (faster, costs apply, some Medicare rebates)
- Telehealth options available for remote/rural areas
- Start with your GP for referrals
Assessment Procedure Flow
- Notice signs or concerns
- Consult GP or paediatrician
- Referral to public/private assessment service
- Assessment using standard tools (e.g., ADOS-2, ADI-R)
- Receive diagnosis and written report
- Access support (NDIS, therapy, resources)
FAQs (Quick Answers)
Who can diagnose? Multidisciplinary teams or qualified clinicians (e.g., paediatrician, psychologist).
Is there a blood test? No, diagnosis is based on behavioral and developmental assessment.
Are telehealth assessments available? Yes, but some parts may require in-person attendance.
Are there costs? Public services are often free; private clinics charge fees (Medicare rebates for under 25s).
Can adults be assessed? Yes, adult assessments are available.
Is there a blood test? No, diagnosis is based on behavioral and developmental assessment.
Are telehealth assessments available? Yes, but some parts may require in-person attendance.
Are there costs? Public services are often free; private clinics charge fees (Medicare rebates for under 25s).
Can adults be assessed? Yes, adult assessments are available.
Key Resources
- State Autism Associations (e.g., Autism Spectrum, AMAZE, Autism SA, Autism QLD)
- NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
- Autism Connect Helpline
- GPs and local health services
Introduction
Navigating autism assessment in Australia can be complex. This guide covers available autism tests, where you can get tested, a step-by-step procedure, FAQs, and a list of resources—optimized for SEO and user experience.
Available Autism Tests in Australia
Formal Diagnostic Tools
- ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule): Gold-standard observational assessment for children and adults35.
- ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised): Comprehensive parent/caregiver interview about developmental history35.
- ABAS-3 (Adaptive Behavior Assessment System): Measures daily living, communication, and social skills3.
- Cognitive/IQ Assessments: Identify learning strengths and weaknesses (in-person only)5.
Screening and Self-Report Tools
- Autism Quotient (AQ): 50-item questionnaire for self-assessment2.
- RAADS–Revised: 80-statement tool for adults2.
- Aspie Quiz: 119-question self-report2.
- Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q): 25 statements2.
- Repetitive Behaviours Questionnaire: 20 statements2.
Where Can You Get Tested?
- Public Services: State-funded assessments (often free but with waiting lists), e.g., Child Development Service (ACT), Western Australia Child and Adolescent Health Service (WA), TADS (Tasmania)17.
- Private Clinics: Faster access, e.g., New Vision Psychology (Sydney), Aspect (nationwide, in-person and telehealth)35.
- Telehealth Assessments: Available for remote/rural areas51.
- Multidisciplinary Teams: Paediatricians, psychologists, speech pathologists, and other allied health professionals18.
Autism Assessment Procedure Flowchart
- Initial Concerns
- Notice signs of autism (social, communication, behavioral differences).
- Consult GP or Paediatrician
- Discuss concerns and get a referral.
- Referral to Assessment Service
- Choose public (longer wait) or private (faster, fee-based).
- Assessment Appointment
- Diagnostic tools used (ADOS-2, ADI-R, ABAS-3, cognitive/IQ tests).
- Multidisciplinary team may be involved.
- Diagnosis and Report
- Receive written report and discuss results.
- Support and Intervention
Resources
- State/Territory Autism Associations:
- Mental Health Support:
- Beyond Blue, SANE Australia, Kids Helpline7
- Government and National Resources:
Conclusion
Understanding the autism testing process in Australia is key to accessing timely support. Use this guide to find the right pathway, tools, and resources for you or your loved one. For the latest information, contact your local autism association or GP17.
Citations:
- https://www.autismawareness.com.au/navigating-autism/getting-a-diagnosis-for-an-autistic-child
- https://embrace-autism.com/autism-tests/
- https://newvisionpsychology.com.au/autism-assessment-sydney/
- https://www.autismcrc.com.au/sites/default/files/inline-files/Australian%20National%20Guideline%20for%20ASD%20Assessment%20-%20Draft%20Version%20for%20Community%20Consultation_0.pdf
- https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/autism-assessment-diagnosis/assessments-faqs
- https://www.officeforautism.sa.gov.au/autism/pathways-for-diagnosis
- https://thespectrum.org.au/resources/
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/servicesandsupport/autism-spectrum-disorder-support-services
- https://thespectrum.org.au/autism-diagnosis/adults/
- https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/autism-assessment-diagnosis/assessment-types
- https://newvisionpsychology.com.au/autism-assessment-sydney/things-you-should-know-about-testing/
- https://www.autismcrc.com.au/best-practice/assessment-and-diagnosis
- https://www.autismcrc.com.au/best-practice/assessment-and-diagnosis/eLearning-resources
- https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/learning-about-autism/assessment-diagnosis/autism-diagnosis
- https://autismsa.org.au/autism-diagnosis/autism-diagnosis-process/the-diagnostic-process/
- https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/autism-assessment-diagnosis
- https://www.autismawareness.com.au/navigating-autism/getting-a-diagnosis-for-an-autistic-adult
- https://psychology.mthc.com.au/payments-fees/
- https://theemotionsclinic.com.au/autism-assessment/
- https://alisthub.com.au/resource/where-to-get-an-autism-assessment/
- https://e-doctor.au/autism-test/
- https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/autism-assessment-diagnosis/getting-a-diagnosis
- https://www.rch.org.au/autism/autism_assessment/Autism_assessment_ages_0-6/
- https://www.autismawareness.com.au/autism/getting-a-diagnosis-of-autism
- https://thespectrum.org.au/faq/
- https://reframingautism.org.au/service/i-am-newly-diagnosed/
- https://reframingautism.org.au/resources/
- http://psychology.mthc.com.au/payments-fees/
- https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/clinical/australia-develops-world-s-most-effective-autism-s
- https://www.autismcrc.com.au/best-practice/assessment-and-diagnosis/for-adults
What are the most reliable autism tests available in Australia for children and adults
The most reliable autism tests available in Australia for both children and adults are those recommended by national guidelines and used by leading assessment services. The following tools are considered gold standard and widely accepted:
- ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition): A structured observational assessment for diagnosing autism across ages and ability levels. It is highly regarded for its reliability and validity9.
- ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised): A comprehensive, semi-structured interview conducted with parents or caregivers, focusing on developmental history and current behavior. It is commonly used for both children and adults9.
- ABAS-3 (Adaptive Behavior Assessment System, Third Edition): Assesses adaptive skills in daily living, communication, and socialization. It is often used alongside other diagnostic tools9.
- SACS-R (Social Attention and Communication Surveillance-Revised): A screening tool developed in Australia, proven to be highly effective for early identification in children as young as 12–24 months. When used with the SACS-Preschool check, it identifies 96% of children on the spectrum by age 3.5. While it is primarily a screening tool, it is considered the world’s most effective for early detection and is widely used in community health settings45.
- MIGDAS (Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum): Another observational tool sometimes used by clinicians, though less common than ADOS-29.
For adults, standardized diagnostic interviews and observational assessments (like ADOS-2 and ADI-R, adapted for adult populations) are used, along with self-report questionnaires such as the RAADS–Revised and Autism Quotient (AQ), though these are not diagnostic on their own.
Summary Table
| Tool | Age Group | Type | Reliability/Evidence Base |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADOS-2 | All ages | Diagnostic | Gold standard |
| ADI-R | All ages | Diagnostic | Gold standard |
| ABAS-3 | All ages | Supportive | High |
| SACS-R | Young children | Screening | World-leading (early ID) |
| MIGDAS | All ages | Diagnostic | Used by some clinics |
Note: For a formal diagnosis, multidisciplinary assessment and the use of gold-standard tools like ADOS-2 and ADI-R are recommended, especially for complex cases67. Screening tools like SACS-R are valuable for early detection but do not replace a full diagnostic assessment.
Citations:
- https://psychology.mthc.com.au/payments-fees/
- https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/autism-assessment-diagnosis
- https://autismsa.org.au/autism-diagnosis/autism-diagnosis-process/the-diagnostic-process/
- https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/clinical/australia-develops-world-s-most-effective-autism-s
- https://www.autismcrc.com.au/news/latest-news/autism-screening-tool-worlds-most-effective
- https://www.autismcrc.com.au/best-practice/assessment-and-diagnosis
- https://www.autismawareness.com.au/navigating-autism/getting-a-diagnosis-for-an-autistic-child
- https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/autism-assessment-diagnosis/assessment-types
- https://newvisionpsychology.com.au/autism-assessment-sydney/
FAQs About Autism Tests in Australia
Who can diagnose autism in Australia?
Autism assessments must be conducted by a qualified professional. This can be a multidisciplinary team—typically including a paediatrician, psychologist, and speech pathologist—or a single clinician such as a clinical psychologist or paediatrician, especially when autism traits are clear and there are no complex factors. The process follows national guidelines to ensure consistency and accuracy.
Source: Autism Awareness Australia, Office for Autism SA
Source: Autism Awareness Australia, Office for Autism SA
What is the difference between an autism test and an autism assessment?
There is no single medical test (like a blood test) for autism. Instead, the term ‘assessment’ is used, which involves a comprehensive review of developmental history, behaviors, and observations by trained professionals. Assessments may include standardized tools, interviews, and observations to determine if someone is autistic.
Source: Aspect
Source: Aspect
What happens during an autism assessment for a child?
The process usually includes parent and teacher questionnaires, direct observation and interaction with the child, and interviews with parents or carers. The assessment is conducted by a diagnostic team in a dedicated space, often using toys and games to observe social and communication behaviors. The team reviews all information against DSM-5 criteria and provides a written report with the findings.
Source: Autism SA
Source: Autism SA
How is autism assessed in adults?
Adults can self-refer or be referred by a GP or allied health professional. The process involves completing detailed questionnaires about development and current behaviors, interviews, and standardized screening tools. The assessment is tailored to the individual’s needs and considers co-occurring conditions. The same DSM-5 diagnostic criteria are used as for children.
Source: Autism SA
Source: Autism SA
What is a cognitive (IQ) assessment and is it part of autism testing?
A cognitive (IQ) assessment evaluates an individual’s learning capabilities, identifying strengths and weaknesses. It is often included in autism assessments to help develop individualized support plans, but it is not used alone to diagnose autism.
Source: Aspect
Source: Aspect
Are telehealth autism assessments available in Australia?
Yes, many providers offer telehealth autism assessments, allowing individuals and families to complete much of the process remotely via video call. However, some components, such as cognitive assessments, may still require in-person attendance.
Source: Aspect, Autism Awareness Australia
Source: Aspect, Autism Awareness Australia
What if English is not my first language?
Interpreter services can be arranged as part of the assessment process, ensuring language is not a barrier to accessing an autism diagnosis.
Source: Aspect
Source: Aspect
Can non-speaking, hearing, or vision-impaired individuals be assessed for autism?
Yes, assessments can be adapted for non-speaking individuals or those with hearing or vision impairments. It is important to discuss any specific needs when booking the assessment.
Source: Aspect
Source: Aspect
Does Australia diagnose Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)?
PDA is not formally recognized as a standalone diagnosis in Australia, as it is not included in the DSM-5 criteria. However, behaviors associated with PDA can be identified during a comprehensive autism assessment.
Source: Aspect
Source: Aspect
How long does an autism assessment take?
Assessment times vary but typically range from 1 to 2.5 hours for children. For adults, the process may involve multiple sessions. Reports are usually provided within 2 to 4 weeks after the assessment.
Source: Autism SA
Source: Autism SA
Is there a cost for autism assessments in Australia?
Publicly funded services are often free but may have long waiting lists. Private assessments incur a fee, but Medicare rebates are available for children and young people under 25. Private health insurance may also cover some costs.
Source: Autism Awareness Australia
Source: Autism Awareness Australia
What are the diagnostic criteria for autism in Australia?
Australia uses the DSM-5 criteria for diagnosing autism, which require evidence of challenges in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted or repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities.
Source: Autism SA
Source: Autism SA
Where can I get an autism assessment in Australia?
You can access autism assessments through public health services, state autism associations, private clinics, and some telehealth providers. Start by consulting your GP, who can refer you to appropriate local services.
Source: Autism Awareness Australia, Autism SA
Source: Autism Awareness Australia, Autism SA
