Researcher receives Fellowship 

Head of autism research at Telethon Kids Institute, Andrew Whitehouse, has been inducted as a Fellow to the International Society for Autism Research, (INSAR) just the fourth Australian to receive the honour.

The Fellowship Program was launched in 2017 to recognise INSAR members whose research has made a significant international impact on the scientific understanding, clinical practice, educational methods and/or autism-related policy.

Professor Whitehouse led the development of the first Australian guidelines for diagnosing autism and supporting autistic children.

He said receiving the award was a great recognition of science in Australia that punches well above its weight.  “It has been a privilege to share my professional life with thousands of autistic children, their families and colleagues who share a passion for a better world.”

Whitehouse will also chair a panel that will review the WA School Education Act 1999 intended to improve outcomes for students with disability. The WA government has increased funding to support the increasing number of students diagnosed with autism and others experiencing a range of learning challenges, that includes more Individual Disability Allocation funding.  

Photo:  Andrew Whitehouse, third from right, with Fellowship award winners.