Enhancing the food production workforce with Neuro-Inclusion Stage 1 (Part A)

AMPC invested in this project to help address workforce shortages in Australia’s red meat processing industry by developing an inclusive, evidence-informed employment model that attracts, supports, and retains autistic job seekers. Many autistic people face barriers in recruitment and workplace participation despite possessing skills well suited to industries such as red meat processing.

Developed in partnership between industry and Team Cohesion, and informed by autistic lived experience and sector expertise, Stage 1 of the project focused on consultation, co-design, and resource development. A comprehensive suite of accessible resources, including executive and manager training, general workforce awareness materials, guidance for inclusive recruitment and onboarding, and foundational materials were developed for autistic employees. It also established the concept for a Neurodiversity Community Liaison Officer (NCLO) role, designed to strengthen connections between industry and the autism community and provide specialist guidance during implementation. The pilot provides immediate benefits to the red meat processing industry by supporting more stable, diverse, and capable workforces.