How to access the service
To access an autism assessment you will need a referral from a:
- paediatrician, or
- child psychiatrist
Your child must be under 18 years of age at the time of referral.
Referrals for an intellectual disability assessment can be made by any of the following people:
- doctors
- psychologists or other health professionals
- people involved in care or support
- you!
Our Information for Referrers page provides practical guidance and key information for referrers.
What happens after a referral
Once we receive a referral, we will:
- check the information provided
- review whether an assessment is appropriate
- contact the referrer if more information is needed.
You will be advised if the referral is:
- accepted and added to the waitlist
- not accepted.
Waiting for an assessment
We appreciate that waiting can feel difficult at times. While you are waiting, you may find it helpful to:
- keep in contact with your doctor or clinician
- continue with any supports or services that are already in place
- contact Thriving Kids Connect WA if you are a parent, carer or kin living in WA who is supporting a child aged 0-8 years with developmental concerns, developmental delay and/or autism with low to moderate support needs by calling 1300 925 437 or filling in the online enquiry form. This service does not provide assessments but can provide practical advice and information, and connect you with available services, noting Thriving Kids program support will be gradually introduced, mainly throughout 2027 and from January 2028.
- contact the Department of Communities, Communities Inclusion Connection Team (CICT), which uses a person-centred approach to facilitate connection to appropriate mainstream and specialised services for people across WA. Anyone in WA can access this team of Community Inclusion Navigators, by phone on 1800 622 258 or by email at lnclusionConnect@communities.wa.gov.au
Current estimated wait times for ASD assessment
- Preschool children (age 0-5 years): approximately 14 months*
- School-aged children (age 6-17 years): approximately 22 months*
Current estimated wait time for ID assessment
- Current estimated wait time for ID assessment is approximately 6-9 months*
*Please note that wait times are estimates, are subject to change, and should be used a guide only.
NDAS provides assessment services and does not offer emergency response. If you need urgent or immediate support, please contact your GP or local health service.
Keep your information up to date and your referral current
Contact us if:
- your contact details change
- you receive new reports
- you have had an ASD or ID assessment completed elsewhere
Contact the Neurodevelopmental Disability Assessment Services Team: email assessment@communities.wa.gov.au.
