The Lab is a community-based, not-for-profit program that can be started by a wide range of organisations or individuals. Labs are currently run by disability service providers, Neighbourhood Houses, local and state government agencies, schools, libraries, and passionate individuals who want to support autistic young people in their community.

Each Lab operates independently but is part of The Lab Network—a national not-for-profit organisation that provides support, resources, and guidance. Labs pay a small subscription fee to access shared branding, tools, mentoring resources, and ongoing support from the Network.

If you’re interested in creating a safe, inclusive space for young people to connect over technology, gaming, and creativity, starting a Lab could be a great fit for your organisation or community.

The Lab is designed to offer a relaxed, non-school-like environment, which is reflected in our choice of venues. Local libraries, community centres, neighbourhood houses, arts centres, and even RSL clubs can all host a Lab. The key requirement is reliable wi-fi, as poor internet can disrupt sessions. Most modern venues meet this need, though some may have security settings that require adjustment.

An ideal venue includes access to a nearby space with tea and coffee facilities where parents or guardians can relax during the session. While carers may stay with participants, it’s generally preferred that parents wait in a separate area.

The main room should comfortably accommodate up to 12 people, enough for 10 participants and two mentors. Larger spaces are welcome. Some venues offer discounted or free use for not-for-profit programs, while others may charge a rental fee.

Lab mentors are a vital part of every session, helping to create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for participants. Many mentors are recruited from TAFE and university programs in computer science, game development, or digital media, but a formal qualification isn’t essential.

We look for people with a mix of:

• Strong tech or gaming knowledge

• An empathetic, professional, and outgoing personality

• The ability to connect with and support autistic young people

While that might sound like a big ask, we’ve found many young people already have these qualities or quickly develop them. Mentoring at The Lab is not only rewarding, it also provides valuable real-world experience for those pursuing careers in tech, education, or community work.

Today, nearly 100 mentors are involved in Labs across Australia, with many staying involved long-term because they find it both challenging and fulfilling.

The Lab Network can also support new Labs with mentor recruitment, offering guidance on where to look, how to promote roles, and what to look for in potential mentors.

The Lab’s focus is on community and inclusion, not profit, and we are committed to making our sessions accessible and affordable for all families.

The Lab is delivered by a diverse range of organisations and individuals, and because of this, each Lab can be structured differently. Most Labs charge fees to cover costs like venue hire and mentor engagement. Our goal is always to keep participation fees as low as possible.

Labs can be run by individuals or any type of organisation or business, as long as they align with our ethos of community-focused, not-for-profit service.

Mentors at The Lab are engaged in ways that suit the structure of the organisation running the local group. In some cases, mentors are employed directly by the host organisation. In others, mentors may be volunteers who receive an honorarium to recognise their time and contribution. The engagement model is flexible and determined by the host based on their needs.

The Lab Network can provide a Mentor Volunteer Agreement (ideal for sole traders) and offers support with mentor recruitment, training, and access to a national peer network of nearly 100 experienced mentors.

Participants with self-managed or plan-managed NDIS plans can use their funding to cover Lab sessions. As The Lab is not an NDIS-registered provider, NDIA-managed (agency-managed) plans cannot be used.

Fees are aligned with NDIS price guide rates for group-based social and community participation and are calculated based on participant-to-mentor ratios. Participation costs are kept within these approved limits.

The Lab can be run by a sole trader with an ABN, as an unincorporated association with a management committee, or as a registered company. Each structure has different legal and operational requirements, so it’s important to seek independent legal advice to determine which option is best for your situation.

Yes, public liability and professional indemnity insurance are required to operate a Lab. This protects you and your mentors and is a condition of membership in The Lab Network, as well as a common requirement for hiring venues.

If you're operating as a sole trader, The Lab Network can provide insurance cover and pass the cost on to your Lab.

The Lab Network is a not-for-profit organisation established in 2013 to support the growth of The Lab and help new venues get started. Led by a volunteer board with expertise in disability, education, tech, law, finance, and governance, our mission is to make The Lab accessible to as many autistic young people and their families as possible.

We’re here to support you with governance guidance, policy resources, and administrative tools including our custom-built Admin Assistant portal, which all Lab Network members use to manage sessions and participants efficiently.

To ensure The Lab model is evidence-based and impactful, we've partnered with respected research organisations like the Young and Well CRC and the Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, and supported several post-doctoral studies into our approach.