Autism and driving: The road to independence

Learning to drive is a significant milestone but for Autistic young people there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

In this episode of a different brilliant®, host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey is joined by Brad Williams, Founder and CEO of Williams OT, occupational therapist, driver assessor and driving instructor, and Jérôme Etteridge, Aspect teacher aide, former Aspect student and licensed driver.

Drawing on professional expertise and lived experience, Brad shares practical insights on recognising driving readiness, building skills at the right pace and supporting learner drivers, while Jérôme reflects on his own experience of learning to drive, the challenges he overcame, and the independence and opportunities that driving has brought to his everyday life.

Whether you're an Autistic young person, parent, carer or professional, this episode offers practical guidance, expert insights and lived experience to support learning to drive.

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Further resources:

Learning to drive – NSW information module: Independently prepared by Jérôme Etteridge, this resource provides a summary of learning to drive in NSW, including the driving process, road rules, available supports and information about the NDIS. The information was current as at 6 August 2026 and is based on NSW road rules.