Amaze

Amaze (Autism Victoria) is a member-based not-for-profit organisation and is the peak body for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) in the state of Victoria. They represent around 55,000 Victorians who have ASD and work for the benefit of all individuals and their families and to promote better understanding of ASD in the general community.

The aim of Amaze is to improve the quality of life for people affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders, their family and carers. They also provide a range of services to individuals and agencies with an interest in Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger Syndrome and PDD-NOS).The organisation was initially founded in 1967 by a group of parents who struggled to find resources regarding Autism Spectrum Disorders. It was called the “Victorian Autistic Children’s and Adult’s Association” and provided a central information source predominantly for parents of individuals with an ASD. The name was changed to Autism Victoria Inc in 1999 and this continues to be the official name.

In 2011, Autism Victoria began to trade as Amaze:

• sometimes life with an ASD can seem like ‘amaze’ and
• sometimes life with an ASD can amaze!

The Amaze Patron is Professor Margot Prior AO, who is an internationally acclaimed researcher, teacher and clinician in the field of Autism Spectrum Disorders. What does Amaze do?

• InfoLine – free phone support for general assistance and advice
• AdviceLine – free phone support for DHS staff working with individuals with an ASD
• Amaze Knowledge RTO – certified and customised training programs for professionals and businesses
• Education and Training – information and education sessions for individuals and families including the Early Days workshops
• Amaze Autism Certification– autism accreditation for services, schools and practitioners
• Government Funding – administration of the FaHCSIA “Helping Children with Autism” funding on behalf of government
• Membership – providing benefits for individuals, families and professionals
• Information Services – Autism Library, Spectrum Magazine, eSpectrum newsletter, online resources, Fact Sheets and more
• Victorian Autism Conference (VAC) – run every second year across the state
• Family Counselling – a service for individuals and families
• Directory of Services – a resource to put people in touch with autism-specific and autism-aware services
• Government Lobbying – working to improve conditions and funding for all individuals with an ASD in Victoria
• Improving Awareness of ASDs – promoting awareness and improved understanding of ASDs
• Fundraising – increasing funds so that we can provide more and better services to the ASD community
• Networks – helping support groups and communities
• ASD Research – helping provide information for researchers and academics on current project to assist with collaboration