What is Autism Spectrum?
What is Autism Spectrum?
What is Autism Spectrum?
Autism Spectrum Disorder, assessment, diagnosis and therapy in Melbourne
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world around them. It's described as a spectrum because autism presents differently from person to person — some people need significant daily support, while others live independently and are only identified in adulthood. A formal diagnosis is made against the DSM-5-TR criteria, following a structured, evidence-based assessment.
Read the full diagnostic criteria we use
Autism Assessment for Children
Many families first notice differences in social communication, play or routines during early childhood. A comprehensive autism assessment for a child at BNC includes a detailed developmental history with parents and caregivers, structured behavioural observation using tools such as the ADOS-2, and — where relevant — input from teachers or early childhood educators. The result is a clear diagnostic outcome and a written report that supports NDIS access, school funding applications and early intervention planning.
Learn more about our Child Autism Assessment
Autism Assessment for Adults
Autism is increasingly being recognised in adults who were missed as children — often because they learned to mask their traits, or because earlier diagnostic criteria didn't reflect how autism can present, particularly in women and AFAB adults. An adult autism assessment at BNC involves a clinical interview, standardised assessment tools and a review of developmental history, and can also explore overlapping traits of ADHD (AuDHD). Assessments are available in person in Doncaster or via telehealth.
Learn more about our Adult Autism Assessment
Signs of Autism in Adults
Autistic traits look different in adulthood, and are often missed or misattributed to anxiety or personality. Common signs include:
- Difficulty reading social cues, small talk or unwritten social rules
- A strong preference for routine, and difficulty with unexpected change
- Deep, focused interests in specific topics
- Sensory sensitivities to light, sound, texture or touch
- Needing time alone to recover after socialising ("masking fatigue")
- A lifelong pattern, even if only recently recognised
Autism and ADHD (AuDHD): Understanding the Overlap
Autism and ADHD frequently co-occur — a combination often referred to as "AuDHD". Because BNC assesses both conditions under one roof, our clinicians are well placed to untangle overlapping traits, such as difficulty with attention, sensory regulation or social exhaustion, and to determine whether one, both, or neither diagnosis applies.
NDIS & Medicare Rebates for Autism Assessment
An autism diagnosis can open access to funding and support, including the NDIS for eligible children and adults, and Medicare rebates through a Mental Health Care Plan for some appointments. Our assessment reports are prepared to meet NDIS documentation requirements, and our team can talk you through what's likely to apply to your situation before you book.
Learn more about NDIS assessments | See Medicare rebate details
Telehealth Autism Assessments — Melbourne & Australia-Wide
Autism assessments don't need to happen in person. BNC offers telehealth assessments for children, teens and adults across regional Victoria and Australia-wide, using the same standardised tools and diagnostic rigour as our in-clinic assessments. All you need is a private space and a stable internet connection — we'll guide you through what to expect before your first appointment.
How Much Does an Autism Assessment Cost? (FAQ)
How much does an autism assessment cost at BNC?
Cost typically varies by whether the assessment is for a child or adult and how many sessions are required. Contact reception on (03) 9848 9100 for an up-to-date quote.]
Are rebates available?
Medicare rebates may apply to some appointments, and NDIS participants may be able to use plan funding. See our NDIS and Medicare page for details.
Why Choose BNC
BNC has been providing autism and ADHD assessments since 2000, delivered by AHPRA-registered psychologists using an evidence-based, multimodal model of care.
- Standardised tools: ADOS-2, ADI-R, CARS-2, aligned with 2023 Autism CRC guidelines
- Reports prepared for NDIS, Centrelink and school funding requirements
- In-person appointments in Doncaster, plus telehealth across Victoria and Australia-wide
- One clinic for both autism and ADHD assessment, useful for the AuDHD population
Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) requires differential determination as to whether the child or adult is on the autism spectrum, or if the observed behaviours are the result of a medical or other condition.
- Pivotal Response Treatment is one of the most rigorously researched early intensive behaviour interventions (EIBI) for autism spectrum disorder. BNC offers PRT-based therapy and parent training for children with ASD in Melbourne.
- When a child is diagnosed with Autism, the parents experience a profound loss as they frequently interpret the news to mean that their loved child has a loss of higher order functions and may not develop into a typically functioning child. Deep-seated emotions swell and flood their… more
- This page contains a list of common early signs of autism spectrum disorder. They do not disgnose ASD, as typically functioning children can also have one or more of these signs. Parents are urged to seek professional advice for diagnosis.
- Early Intensive Behavioural intervention services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder are required because children with ASD cannot generally learn in the same way that typically developing children do. Instead research indicates that they need to be prompted intensively early in their… more
- In 2023, Australia released significant updates to its national guidelines for supporting autistic children and their families, with a strong focus on treatment and intervention. The new guidelines, led by Autism CRC, represent the first national, evidence-based framework in Australia that… more
