Case Study
Recruitment & Selection

Australian Spatial Analytics

Diversity and Inclusion Case Study (the Social Enterprise view)

Introduction

Established in 2020, Australian Spatial Analytics (ASA) is a prominent work-integrated certified social enterprise. ASA’s core mission revolves around forging career pathways within geospatial and digital engineering for young neurodivergent adults, focusing on individuals with autism.

This case study highlights ASA’s impactful journey in creating big data career opportunities for over 150 young neurodivergent adults, specifically those with autism, spanning both metropolitan and regional Australia.

Opportunity

A recent study estimated the United Kingdom loses over £14.5 billion (~$AUD 28 billion) annually because of autistic unemployment. Australia has also identified that high unemployment in this cohort has significant social and economic consequences. The Federal Government’s employment white paper underscores the necessity for social enterprises to integrate disadvantaged individuals, especially those with autism, into the workforce, given the projected demand for over 6.5 million big-data-related tech jobs in Australia by 2030.

PwC’s Mine 2023 report highlighted the talent shortage, particularly in the mining sector, with two-thirds of CEOs anticipating substantial impacts on profitability in the next decade. Despite this, there is an underutilised pool of talent capable of filling crucial roles in fields such as 3D modelling, quality control, analytics, programming, and engineering. As future developments in big data, IT security, artificial intelligence, and automation unfold, a skilled workforce becomes imperative.

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) grapple with an alarming 34% unemployment rate in Australia, a stark contrast to the national average and even more pronounced in regional areas. With over 375,000 Australians living with ASD, ASA addresses the pressing need for alternative pathways to well-paid jobs in the data economy. As autism emerges as the fastest-growing ‘disability’ in the Western world, ASA’s efforts focus on bridging this gap.

“Success is a collaborative effort, and our partnership with ASA exemplifies the power of innovation, dedication, and shared goals.”

Ruben Sanchez Moragues – Acciona Engineering and Design

Solution

ASA’s initiatives help address industry-specific skill shortages experienced by Queensland Resources Council members while facilitating the transition of neurodivergent individuals away from disability support pensions, empowering and equipping them with valuable skills for the workforce from on-the-job training across multiple industries.

Their geospatial partner clients and projects include Enzen/Energy Queensland (electricity asset data verification), the Department of Natural Resources (roads and address validation, cadastral maintenance systems), Brisbane City Council (emergency management spatial data), the Department of Regional NSW (historic mine digitisation), Integrated Futures (natural asset mapping), Swarm Farm (mapping for robotic machinery) and Brisbane Airport Corporation (data validation).

In the digital engineering space, ASA’s analysts deliver services such as virtual design and construction, engineering drafting and design, and As-builts. Example projects include Acciona Engineering and Design (Coombabah Sewerage Treatment Plant upgrade, MacIntyre Wind Farm (QLD), Kenwick Rail Facility (WA), Major Roads Interchange (SA), FSC Range (St Leonards Boat Ramp preliminary and detail design modelling, VIC) and the Metropolitan Roads Program Alliance in Victoria.

Ruben Sanchez Moragues, National Digital Engineer Manager at Acciona Engineering and Design, said, “Success is a collaborative effort, and our partnership with ASA exemplifies the power of innovation, dedication, and shared goals. Together, we are not just producing drawings; we are constructing a future defined by sustainability, excellence, and positive impact.”

ASA also has a Talent Services offering that creates long-term, stable employment for their team in the growing digital economy with other organisations, such as the Department of Resources and Acciona Engineering and Design.

Outcome

Since its inception, ASA has experienced rapid growth, employing over 180 individuals by 2024 and forming partnerships with more than 40 clients. Renowned for delivering professional, award-winning, 100% onshore data services, ASA’s success is rooted in eliminating data sovereignty and modern slavery risks, providing enhanced customer service through localised operations, and harnessing neurodivergent competencies for quicker and more precise data analysis. Their work ensures that their partners comply with the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018​.

ASA’s dedication to championing neurodiversity within the resources industry is evident through its “Thrive” initiative, which fosters an inclusive workplace environment that acknowledges and celebrates the unique talents of neurodivergent individuals.

By fostering a supportive culture, ASA believes neurodivergent talents can flourish, bringing innovation and efficiency to projects while setting a precedent for broader adoption of diversity and inclusion principles across various sectors. Through initiatives like “Thrive,” ASA not only contributes to the success of resources industry projects but also cultivates a workforce that reflects the richness of diversity, empowering every employee to feel valued and empowered.