Autism and Agriculture is an initiative of SunPork Farms and Autism CRC which aims to improve animal welfare by creating opportunities in animal care for adults on the autism spectrum.
In collaboration with the Pork CRC and Specialisterne Australia, nine autistic adults in South Australia and seven in Queensland were employed within SunPork Farms during the pilot program. Mentoring and workplace support will enable candidates to work in the agricultural industry, employing key strengths in animal care to ultimately enhance animal welfare. Autism and Agriculture acknowledges the funding provided by the South Australian Government to develop the pilot program.
What some people involved have to say:
“This has been a fantastic opportunity for my son Sam. the company has been so supportive and the staff all so helpful in any way they can. Well done Sunpork, I hope this program and others like it continue to flourish and help these young adults find great employment so they can contribute to society and feel good about themselves.”
“Autistic people have a unique skillset very suited to working with animals.”
The Project, Channel 10
The Autism and Agriculture project caught the attention of Channel 10’s The Project
