Teens Work Know-How Program

Supporting Autistic and Neurodivergent Teens to Explore Work and Build Confidence

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

What makes this program unique is its foundation in lived experience. TWKHP was co-designed by a multidisciplinary team of autistic and neurodivergent professionals, each with firsthand knowledge of navigating school, employment, and life transitions. Their insights ensure the program remains accessible, relatable, and relevant to the young people it serves.

The program is currently led by Jacob Alan Kness, Employment Programs Manager at Aspergers Victoria. Jacob brings lived experience as a former early school leaver who understands the systemic gaps many neurodivergent teens face. Now a recognised advocate and program developer, Jacob co-creates pathways that reflect what neurodivergent young people actually need — not what others assume they do.

This program is not built on the idea that teens require extra help because they are “too autistic” or “too different” to succeed. Instead, it 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, interactive workshops tailored to exploring strengths, communication strategies, and workplace expectations

• 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 our partner organisations

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

Program content is designed to align with a student’s developmental readiness and career interests. AV staff work closely with participants and their families to ensure supports are tailored and placements are appropriate.

2026 Program Dates

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

• Term 1 (April 2026)

• Term 3 (September 2026)

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 ANZ, CSIRO, ACMI, Yarra Valley Plenty regional Libraries, and others.

Expressions of Interest

We are currently accepting Expressions of Interest for the 2025 program cycle.

To learn more or apply, please visit the registration page below:
Submit Your Expression of Interest

A detailed program flyer for 2025–26, including all links and important dates, is also available:
Download the 2025–26 Program Flyer

Stay Informed

If you would like to stay up to date on this and other AV programs, we invite you to join our community mailing list. You can select your areas of interest and update them at any time.

• How to Join the AV Mailing List

• How to Update Your AV Profile Areas of Interest

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:

Jacob Alan Kness 

– Employment Programs Manager: programs@@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.