About the Program

The Teens Work Know-How Program (TWKHP) is an ILC-funded initiative by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing that supports autistic and neurodivergent teenagers in their introduction to the world of work. Through a staged, strength-based approach, the program equips participants with valuable career insights, foundational work skills, and real-world experience in inclusive environments.

TWKHP is specifically designed for students who may face barriers engaging with traditional work experience pathways. The program was developed in response to community feedback and research that highlighted a gap: many neurodivergent students were missing out on the practical benefits and personal growth that meaningful work exposure can provide.

This is not a therapy-based program, nor does it focus on correcting deficits. Instead, it highlights the strengths, interests, and emerging capabilities of each teen, while offering practical tools to navigate both school and future employment settings with greater confidence and clarity.

Designed by Lived Experience & FOCUSeS ON WHAT YOU CAN DO

What makes this program unique is its foundation in lived experiences of neurodiverse individuals. TWKHP was co-designed by a multidisciplinary team of autistic and neurodiverse professionals — including AV's Employment Programs Manager Jacob Allan Kness— with firsthand knowledge of navigating school, employment, life transitions, and systemic gaps many neurodivergent teens often face. Their insights ensure the program remains accessible, relatable, and relevant to the young people it's been designed for. 

Currently led by Noni Dilizia (Brand & Project Manager) and Zahra Aumeerally (Employment Programs Coordinator), the program is also facilitated by industry professionals who volunteer with Autism Valued. 

Not built on the idea that teens require extra help because they are “too autistic” or “too different” to succeed, instead the program acknowledges that many school and employment systems were not designed with neurodivergent minds in mind. TWKHP exists to bridge that gap — empowering participants with tools, experiences, and support that honour their individuality.

Program Components

Participants in the program will:

• Take part in structured, highly supported interactive workshops tailored to exploring their strengths and developing teamwork and communication skills

• Engage with mentors and facilitators who have lived experience of autism and other neurodivergent profiles

• Complete a short-term work experience placement with one of AV's partner organisations

• Gain exposure to real workplaces and build confidence through hands-on learning and reflection

The program content is designed to align with a student’s developmental readiness and career interests, while the AV internal team staff work closely with participants and their families to support them and work experience placements are aligned.

2026 Program Dates

The Teens Work Know-How Program runs during the second week of the following school holiday periods:

ROUND 1: Term 1 (February—April 2026)

ROUND 2: Term 3 (July—September 2026) 
2026 ROUND 2 CALENDAR PDF

Delivery includes both in-person and online options, depending on participant needs and geographic location. Work experience placements are offered through partnerships with inclusive organisations such as Amaze, Australian Centre of Moving Images (ACMI), National Australia Bank (NAB), Melbourne City Library, and more. 

Expressions of Interest

We are currently accepting Expressions of Interest for 2026 Round 2!

Click the below to apply:
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORM

A detailed program flyer for 2026, including all links and important dates, is also available:
DOWNLOAD 2026 PROGRAM BOOKLET

Stay Informed

If you would like to stay up to date on this and other AV programs, please click the below to our community mailing list. You can select your areas of interest and update your subscription at any time.

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For Schools and Employers

If you represent a school, VET program, or organisation interested in collaborating with the Teens Work Know-How Program as a referrer or host employer, we would be pleased to speak with you.

• School Flyer: Click here 
• Host Employer Flyer: Click here 

Please contact:

NONI DILIZIA 

Brand & Project Manager: brand@autismvalued.org.au

Zahra Aumeerally

Employment Programs Coordinator: coordinator@autismvalued.org.au

Child Safety Commitment

AV is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people who engage with our programs. TWKHP is delivered in alignment with our Child Safety Framework and associated policies.