Who Are the Lost Generation?
There’s a growing group of Australians who call themselves the lost generation – autistic adults who didn’t receive their diagnosis until later in life. We grew up without understanding, without adjustments in school, and without any meaningful government support.
For decades, autism was viewed through a narrow lens, often focused only on children who displayed significant challenges. If you could speak, attend school, and “just about cope,” you were invisible.
Many of us masked, struggled in silence, and blamed ourselves for not fitting in. Then, in adulthood, came the diagnosis. Finally, clarity – but little else.
The Drop-Off After 18
For autistic people in Australia, there is a well-known cliff at 18. Childhood supports disappear, and adult services are almost non-existent. The assumption seems to be:
“You’re grown now. You’ll manage.”
But we don’t always manage. The transition to higher education, employment, and independent living is where the cracks turn into chasms. Without the right support, autistic adults face:
- Higher unemployment and underemployment
- Increased mental health challenges
- Social isolation and financial hardship
Now, Even More Supports Are Being Stripped Away
Recently, the Australian Government has started removing supports for people considered to have “mild” or “moderate” autism. Many are being pushed into diversion programs rather than being given the resources they need to thrive.
To me, this is nothing short of theft of support.
These services were hard-won and life-changing for many. Taking them away sends a clear message:
If you can mask and “get by,” you don’t deserve help.
But coping isn’t thriving. Surviving isn’t living.
The Myth of ‘Mild’ Autism
The term “mild autism” is misleading. It doesn’t describe the experience – only how visible it appears to others. Many of us mask so well that the world sees “fine,” while inside, we’re burning out.
Without appropriate support, the cost is enormous:
- Mental health crises
- Chronic stress and anxiety
- Long-term unemployment
- Higher suicide rates among autistic adults
What Needs to Change?
- Autism is lifelong. Services must reflect that reality.
- Support for adults matters. The NDIS and other programs need fair access for adults, not just kids.
- Stop the severity gatekeeping. Every autistic person deserves access to the tools that help them live and participate fully.
For Those of Us in the Lost Generation
We didn’t get early intervention. We didn’t get school adjustments. And now, as adults, the little help we might have received is being taken away. That is not progress – it’s abandonment.
If you’re part of this lost generation, you are not alone. We need to speak up, share our stories, and demand that autism supports are lifelong and inclusive for everyone.