World Autism Awareness Day Update

Thank you to everyone who has contacted us in support of our World Autism Awareness march – we are looking forward to the day and hope to see you there!

Many of you may have noticed that the Herald Sun printed a short piece on the event in Sunday’s paper. Unfortunately there was an error in the piece, which stated that the march was this coming Thursday. We would like to assure everyone that the march will still be occurring next Thursday April 1st at 12pm. We would also like to infom all participants that all balloons and ribbons are 100% biodegradable.

Please come and join us on Thursday 1st April to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day 2010. Meet us at Autism Victoria (24 Drummond St, Carlton) at 12pm. March with us to the State Library where we will be releasing 1000 multicoloured balloons to represent the individuality of those on the Autism Spectrum. The 1000 balloons is also in support of the 1000 hours campaign. We hope to see you there! For more information contact Sasha Lilford on sasha.lilford@autismvictoria.org.au or (03) 9657 1629.

Autism Awareness Month and Footprint Books

Footprint books and Autism Victoria are joining forces to spread the word about Autism Spectrum Disorders! During April, Footprint books is administering an Autism Campaign. This will include nationwide advertising, in-store promotions at major bookstores (including Dymocks, Readings and Borders) and speaking events featuring popular Autism author Donna Williams. Please see the News tab (http://www.autismvictoria.org.au/news/media.php) of our website for more information.

Natalie's Achievement

Congratulations to Natalie Clarke, who recently made history by successfully kiteboarding across Bass Strait! Natalie is a swimming teacher for children with special needs, and is a coordinator at the Swim 4 All swim school. Natalie undertook this challenge to raise awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorders and raise funds to build a new swim school for children with autism. It is Natalie’s dream that this purpose-built facility will be the first of many for children with special needs, so that all children are able to access lessons in a Swim 4 All centre near them. Donations for the new swim school facility can be made through www.swim4all.com.au

Employment Opportunities at Autism Victoria

Autism Victoria is looking for two full-time Information Officers to join its team in Carlton, Melbourne. The positions are a 6 month maternity leave contract and a 9 month contract. Depending on funding, both contracts may be extended.

The Information Officer is the first point of contact for the public accessing Autism Victoria. In partnership with other Autism Victoria staff, this role will see you developing and delivering Information, Advice and Support to individuals, families and professionals.

Autism Victoria is looking for a motivated and enthusiastic individual with well developed knowledge and experience in Autism Spectrum Disorders. You will be a passionate believer in individual choice and show an unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals touched by Autism Spectrum Disorders.

You will enjoy a high degree of autonomy and immense job satisfaction as you become an integral part of a supportive organisational culture that celebrates progress.

We offer an attractive remuneration package including Superannuation and salary packaging. Additionally, you will benefit from the convenience of a city fringe location.

Don't miss this opportunity to advance your career with this peak body while making a real difference to the lives of people affected by ASD.

Please refer to the position description that specifies the key responsibilities which is available under the Employment Opportunities tab on our website: http://www.autismvictoria.org.au/employment_opportunities/

To apply for this position, please forward your resume and a cover letter addressing the Key Selection Criteria to Jeandré Viljoen (Manager Information, Advice & Support Unit) by:

e-mail:        jeandre.viljoen@autismvictoria.org.au,

post:           P.O. Box 374, Carlton South, VIC, 3053

delivery:      24 Drummond Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053

Any queries can be directed to Jeandré jeandre.viljoen@autismvictoria.org.au or phone (03) 9657 1606.

The closing date for applications is COB Friday 9th April 2010.