Building neuro-inclusive workplaces: AMPC autism employment pilot reaches first milestone
The Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC), in partnership with neurodiversity employment specialists Team Cohesion, has reached a significant milestone in their autism employment pilot, with the first neuro-inclusion training session being delivered to JBS Dinmore’s HR and Recruitment team.
The Enhancing the Food Production Workforce with Neuro-Inclusion Pilot is an industry-first for red meat processing and aims to connect red meat processing businesses with capable employees and to promote a more inclusive, productive workforce.
Delivery of the first training session marks the pilot's first extension activity, following a year of extensive national consultation and industry engagement that identified both the challenges and clear opportunities to improve employment outcomes for autistic individuals in the red meat processing industry.
The research revealed overwhelming employer appetite for more inclusive hiring practices and strong support for a coordinated industry-wide approach.
AMPC Program Manager People and Culture, Amanda Carter said, “AMPC funded phase one of the project, which involved developing educational resources, workforce capability tools, and establishing a dedicated industry working group.”
“With this foundation now in place, phase two is currently being co-designed for on-the-ground delivery in 2026.”
JBS Dinmore is one of four pilot sites participating in the program across south-east Queensland. Its involvement in the first training session is helping equip recruitment teams with practical tools to identify and remove barriers within their hiring processes.
Team Cohesion Neurodiversity Consultant & Employment Specialist, Sharon Whip said, “The training emphasises building capability and confidence, deepening understanding of neurodiversity, applying inclusive recruitment practices, offering alternative assessment methods, and designing structured pathways that support all applicants – not just neurodivergent ones.”
“JBS Dinmore’s engagement with the pilot and participation in the first training session signal more than just another upskilling exercise; they reflect a shift in the industry's mindset.”
“With strong industry leadership, this pilot has the potential to show that neuro-inclusive employment isn’t just theoretical and create a scalable, sustainable model for workforce innovation across Australia’s agriculture sector.”
JBS Australia General Manager HR, Northern, Kimberley Melrose said, “JBS is honoured to be part of this industry-first initiative.”
“We believe every person brings unique strengths to the table. Through this program, we are looking at opportunities that benefit individuals, businesses, and the entire sector.
“The pilot is not about meeting a milestone, it’s about shaping a more innovative, resilient industry where every individual has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.”
To learn more about the pilot and follow its progress, visit: www.teamcohesion.com.au/enhancing-the-food-production-workforce or contact AMPC Program Manager Amanda Carter at a.carter@ampc.com.au
For more information
Contact Acting Head of Communications and Media – Caitlin Morris-Fredericks on 0476 110 675 or email c.morris@ampc.com.au
About the Australian Meat Processor Corporation
The Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC) is the research and development corporation for the red meat processing industry in Australia. As the research, development and marketing service provider for Australian processors, AMPC runs programs of activity funded by processor levy payers, private contributions, and the Australian Government. AMPC’s mission is to drive world-class innovation, adoption and strategic policy development through genuine partnerships built on trust.