AEIOU Foundation for Children with Autism

20/11/2025

“If we lose funding, I’d have to give up work to look after Lenny. And we’d probably have to sell our home.” – Nikki, Lenny’s mum.

For families like Lenny’s, the NDIS changes are devastating.

Your Christmas gift can help a child with autism continue to receive supports they need and give their family hope.

💙 Give today to close the funding gap: https://bit.ly/3LhUPvH

11/11/2025

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Rosemaria Flaherty as AEIOU Foundation’s new Chief Executive Officer, commencing Monday, 17 November 2025.

Following a comprehensive national search, Dr Flaherty was selected from a strong field of candidates to lead AEIOU into the future.

Dr Flaherty brings extensive leadership experience across the health, social services and child protection sectors, with deep expertise in government engagement, policy reform, and organisational transformation. She is also a registered Senior Psychologist with a PhD in Psychology, and postgraduate qualifications in business administration and counselling psychology.

AEIOU Foundation Chair, Mark Algie, said the Board is confident Dr Flaherty will lead AEIOU with vision and commitment as the sector continues to navigate changes to the NDIS.

“Rosa and the Board are aligned and deeply committed to AEIOU’s future vision and strategic direction. We are excited to welcome her as we continue building on AEIOU’s legacy of delivering high-quality, evidence-based services for children with autism and their families.”

Dr Flaherty said she is honoured to join AEIOU Foundation at such a pivotal time.

“My focus as incoming CEO is to ensure more children with autism, and their families, experience the life-changing outcomes AEIOU Foundation is known for. Together with our partners, we’ll continue to create a community where every child’s potential is nourished and celebrated.”

AEIOU Foundation also acknowledges the outstanding contribution of Alan Smith, who is retiring after more than 16 years of dedicated service. Under his leadership, AEIOU expanded its reach across Queensland, South Australia and the ACT, diversified its services, and strengthened its reputation as a leading provider of early intervention for children with autism.

We thank Alan for his remarkable leadership and welcome Dr Flaherty as she begins this exciting new chapter with AEIOU Foundation.

👉 Learn more about AEIOU Foundation and our mission:

AEIOU Foundation appoints Dr Rosemaria Flaherty as new Chief Executive Officer - AEIOU Foundation provides high-quality early intervention for pre-school aged children with an autism diagnosis.

07/11/2025

When Nikki’s little boy, Lenny, was diagnosed with autism at 18 months, she was desperate to find the right support.

Mainstream daycare wasn’t safe for him as he ran, climbed, and often had meltdowns because no one knew how to help.

At AEIOU, Lenny finally found a place where he belongs. A place where his needs are understood, and his potential is nurtured 💙

But with changes to NDIS funding, families like Nikki’s are facing impossible choices.

This Christmas, you can help close the gap and give a child like Lenny the care they deserve.

👉 Donate now: https://bit.ly/3LhUPvH

29/10/2025

Doesn't this rainy weather make you want to cozy up in bed in warm jammies? ☁️ The sudden cooler weather has made us think back to the winter days when our centre celebrated the Pyjama Day in July -- a day filled with comfort, laughter and fun! ✨

20/10/2025

Team Jacob Boutique Beer Lunch was a tremendous success with great company, delicious food, and generous raffle prizes. Thank you, Team Jacob Charitable Enterprises Ltd, for all the work you do in raising autism awareness 💙

20/10/2025

William graduated from AEIOU in 2017. Since then, he has grown into a talented young man with a love for music and today, he’s sharing his gift with us 🎹✨

To celebrate our 20th anniversary, William prepared and performed a beautiful piano piece all by himself. His creativity, dedication and kindness remind us why AEIOU exists: to help children with autism reach their full potential.

We are so proud of William, and so grateful that he continues to be part of the AEIOU story 💙

16/10/2025

In 2014, Jacob graduated from AEIOU. By 2015, he was starting school. And today, he’s in his final year – what a special milestone 💙

But Jacob’s story didn’t end there. His family created Team Jacob, a movement born from gratitude that has gone on to help countless other families access the support they need.

That ripple effect is what AEIOU is all about: families supporting families, communities growing stronger, and children reaching milestones once thought out of reach.

We’re honoured to celebrate Jacob and his family as part of 20 years of impact.

13/10/2025

Every child’s story is unique, and so is every family’s journey 🌱
Alvin’s children, Cyrus and Dahlia, are part of the AEIOU family. Their story reminds us why early intervention matters and how every milestone is a celebration of growth and possibility.

We are proud to share their journey as part of our 20th anniversary series, recognising the strength and love of the families who make AEIOU 💙

10/10/2025

For more than a decade, Paige has been an integral part of AEIOU’s story and the stories of countless children and families 👩‍⚕️💙

Paige began her journey with AEIOU as an Occupational Therapist, and over time has stepped into leadership as our Manager of Clinical Delivery. Her commitment, passion, and care embody what makes AEIOU so special.

As we celebrate 20 years, we also celebrate the people like Paige who dedicate their careers to changing lives every single day.

07/10/2025

Every AEIOU story is special and Ben’s journey is no different 💙
Ben, an AEIOU graduate, represents the hope and potential that early intervention creates. His dad, David, has been a passionate supporter of AEIOU and a voice for families raising children with autism.

Together, their family has been part of our story for many years, reminding us how powerful community can be in creating opportunities for children.