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If you’re looking for a great cause to get behind and want to do your bit to change the drowning statistics, we would be forever indebted for your support.

Autism Swim

International Water Safety and Swimming Specialists in Autism Spectrum Disorder

About Us

Autism Swim is an international, social enterprise of experts specialising in wandering and drowning prevention for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other abilities.

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Autism Swim was established in 2016 by Founder and Clinical Director Erika Gleeson (G.C Autism, B.A Behavioural Science).

Erika is a Senior Behaviour and Skill Development Specialist in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and cognitive deficit; and is widely recognised as Australia’s leading expert in Wandering and Drowning prevention for those with ASD/cognitive deficit.

Autism Swim is an international, multi-disciplinary organisation, combining the expertise of Autism Specialists, Behaviour Specialists, Occupational Therapists and Swimming Instructors to achieve the best possible outcomes for the individuals whom they support. Autism Swim also operates under the skilled leadership of an Advisory Board.

AUTISM SWIM STAFF

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Erika

Founder/Clinical Director of Autism Swim & Senior Behaviour Specialist

Best thing about my job:
Every day our work allows us to create a more inclusive society, and allows us to make the lives of others better. There really isn't a feeling in life that comes close to that. 

On the weekend you'll find me:
Exercising --> Cafe --> beach --> dog park --> reading --> working.

In case you ever want to buy me one, my coffee order is:
Long black or iced long black, depending on the weather.

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Chloe

Business Administration Manager
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Best thing about my job:
 I can use my skills to support a cause I am so passionate about, and work with some really amazing people in the process!

On the weekend you'll find me:
Hanging out with my 3 wonderful kids, at the park, the beach, or just in the backyard.

In case you ever want to buy me one, my coffee order is:
An almond milk latte.

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Lauren

Project Manager
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Best thing about my job:
I don't have to choose between thinking about work and personal passions - they are officially interchangeable.

On the weekend you'll find me:
Trying to coerce my two kids into watching the Disney movie that I want to watch.

In case you ever want to buy me one, my coffee order is:
A bucket-sized cappuccino - STAT.

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Emma

Aquatic Occupational Therapist

Best thing about my job:
Being part of a great cause, helping others, and having fun doing it.

On the weekend you'll find me:
Usually somewhere hiking, swimming, running, or riding my bike off the beaten track and away from the hustle and bustle

In case you ever want to buy me one, my coffee order is:
Regular latte with 1/2 a sugar

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Jess

Aquatic Occupational Therapist

Best thing about my job:
Knowing that I am contributing to more inclusive water safety practices around the world.

On the weekend you'll find me:
Exploring somewhere near the Sunshine Coast.

In case you ever want to buy me one, my coffee order is:
A macchiato – perfect for biscuit dipping, haha!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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Doctor Geoff Potter

Autism Specialist
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Cheryl Pettinau

PR and Communications

Bertrand Eury

Investment/Finance Advisor
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Audrey Variyan

Swimming Instructor and Parent

Stephen Warner

Commercial Strategy

Simon Cuthbert

Finance & Risk

WHO DO WE WORK WITH?

  • Swim Centres and Instructors
  • Aquatic Therapists
  • Parents and families
  • Schools (both specialised and mainstream)
  • Surf Life Saving Clubs
  • Government bodies
  • Not-for-profits
  • Education bodies
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AQUATIC PROFESSIONALS

We work with swimming instructors, swim centres, therapists and other aquatic professions; providing them with training, resources and support so that they are better geared to teach individuals with ASD and cognitive deficit. As a result, they become Autism Swim Approved.

See our swimming instructor, swim centre or aquatic therapist page for more information.

Become Autism Swim Approved

PARENTS

Parents benefit from receiving expert resources, training, workshops, individualised programs and strategies on wandering and drowning prevention.

Click below for more information on our parent training and membership options.

Online Parents Training Options

WHY WE EXIST

150

children are diagnosed with ASD every hour. That’s about 1.3 million diagnosed every year.

160

That’s how many times more likely drowning occurrence is for someone with ASD than a child without.

91%

of parents in our community have left other aquatic services due to them not understanding their child’s needs.

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