11/04/2022 - SA Police autism awareness training

South Australian police officers are undertaking training to recognise the signs of autism and to effectively interact with autistic people, developed by the Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice.

As part of the training, police officers virtually interact with a number of different scenarios that could involve an autistic person, and encounter ‘typical’ behaviours of an autistic person. These scenarios could range from routine traffic stops to identifying and managing a ‘melt down’. 

Listen to Juliette Jones, Manager Diversity and Inclusion, South Australia Police about SAPOL’s vision for safer communities, where each member of the public - regardless of ability or disability - feels safe and respected. She's joined by Senior Constable Kirby Morley from SAPOL’s Emergency and Major Event Section. Kirby has a 5–year old daughter who is on the autism spectrum.