National Autism Strategy
Canada’s Autism Strategy supports the federal implementation of the Framework for Autism in Canada, ensuring autistic people are accepted, included, and supported to live fulfilling lives. It serves as a tool for the Government of Canada to advance autism priorities in collaboration with provinces, territories, Indigenous organizations, and other key partners.
5 key Priority Areas
Canada’s National Autism Strategy is built around five core priorities that aim to create consistent, equitable, and inclusive supports for autistic individuals and their families:
Access to Assessments & Services
Timely and fair access throughout all stages of life.
Economic Inclusion
Employment, financial stability, and resources that help autistic Canadians thrive economically.
Data, Research, & Public Health Monitoring
Strengthening research to guide policies and improve understanding across Canada.
Awareness & Acceptance
Reduce stigma, increase understanding, and foster inclusion in all communities.
Practical Tools & Resources
Clear, accessible resources to support everyday needs and all intersectionalities.
The purpose of Canada's Autism Strategy is to support federal implementation of the Framework for Autism in Canada, to ensure Autistic people living in Canada are accepted, included, and supported to experience an optimal quality of life. It is a tool for the Government of Canada to continue advancing autism priorities, in collaboration with key partners and stakeholders.
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The strategy is a federal, multi-year strategic plan that outlines short and medium- term initiatives and builds on existing federal programs and measures. It aims to increase public understanding and acceptance of autism, improve screening, diagnosis and services, strengthen economic inclusion, enhance data collection, public health surveillance and research and further accessibility to evidence-informed autism resources and tools. The strategy is intended to be updated on a regular basis, as the actions are implemented and the needs and priorities of Autistic people, of all ages, and those of their advocates and caregivers evolve over time over the life-course.
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It also builds on important initiatives and investments that are already in place, such as Canada's Disability Inclusion Action Plan. The strategy highlights some key existing measures that we know contribute to the financial stability and security of Autistic persons in Canada such as tax measures and benefits, employment programming, financial literacy and planning and housing supports. The strategy aligns with other countries who have also developed national autism strategies, and contributes to Canada's implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
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National strategies and policies play a vital role in prioritizing the needs of autistic people, improving access to resources, and promoting equity in health and social systems. Without strong policies, many autistic individuals face barriers to essential services. A national autism strategy is key to building inclusive health, education, and justice systems that empower autistic Canadians to live full and meaningful lives
The following organizations have played a vital role in supporting the strategies and ensuring the initatives are developed by autisitc people in way that meets the needs of all autistics in Canada.
The Public Health Agency of Canada led the development & implementation of the strategy, coordinating efforts across governments and partners, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring decisions are informed by evidence and lived experience.
The Public Health Agency of Canada led the development & implementation of the strategy, coordinating efforts across governments and partners, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring decisions are informed by evidence and lived experience.
Rick Landry
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"The release of the Framework and Strategy is fundamental to our ongoing collaboration with the autism community to address the complex and diverse needs of Autistic people in Canada. By working together, we can contribute to meaningful and long-term improvements to the health and well-being of Autistic individuals, their families and caregivers."
The Honourable Mark Holland
Minister of Health
"Through the Framework and Strategy, our government is taking concrete steps to break down barriers faced by persons with disabilities in Canada. In the spirit of "Nothing without us," we are working with the autism community to create a strategy that is meeting the diverse needs of the community, which will help to better support and empower Autistic people, their families and caregivers."
The Honourable Kamal Khera
Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities