When we started Ignition Gamers, we weren’t trying to launch a business. We were trying to fill a gap that felt far too big to ignore.
Our son Will, who lives with 47xyy Syndrome, a genetic condition that also increases the risk of an individual developing other hidden disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorder.
Will was receiving NDIS support, but something was missing. While he had the hours, the goals, and the plans on paper, he was still spending more than 12 hours a day gaming alone. The supports in place weren’t helping him build real friendships or meaningful social experiences. He was isolated, and we could see the impact.
So, we asked ourselves: what if gaming could be the solution, not the problem?
The beginning of something different
That question sparked the beginning of Ignition Gamers – an idea that came straight from Will. He imagined a space where autistic teens and young adults could come together, not just to play games, but to build real, lasting connections through shared play and community. We didn’t want it to be clinical or overwhelming. We wanted it to feel like a lounge room with friends. A place where everyone felt safe to be themselves, supported to grow, and empowered to lead.
We started small, right here in Canberra – just a handful of participants and a few game controllers. But from the very first session, we knew we were onto something powerful.
Why face-to-face team gaming?
Online team gaming is often a significant first step for autistic teens and young adults. It creates space to connect with others without the pressure of face-to-face interaction, helping build confidence, communication skills, and a sense of belonging – all from the safety and comfort of home. For many, it’s a way to practise social interaction in an environment that feels safe, and is on their own terms.
But face-to-face team gaming takes those skills to a whole new level.
At Ignition Gamers, our in-person sessions offer real-time, real-world interaction, where participants can build on what they’ve learned online and apply it in a supportive, inclusive environment. Whether it’s teaming up in Mario Kart or working together to slay a dragon in Dungeons & Dragons, face-to-face gaming helps young people practise teamwork, read social cues, and form lasting friendships in a space where they feel safe and understood.
We’re not just playing games but helping our participants level up. Our sessions are designed for autistic teens and young adults aged 14 to 35, offering the right mix of structure, support and fun to help build the confidence and skills that carry through to everyday life.
What makes us different: peer support with lived experience
One of the things we’re most proud of at Ignition Gamers is our team. Every Peer Support Worker brings their own lived experience, whether that’s autism, mental health challenges, or other hidden disabilities. And that matters. Because our team members don’t just facilitate sessions – they get it.
They know what it’s like to feel misunderstood or left out. They know the power of feeling seen and the importance of being supported in the right way, at the right time. That’s why our Peer Workers offer more than just gameplay support. They’re mentors, role models, and real companions through the ups and downs of social interaction.
To support this work, our Senior Peer Workers have completed a six-month Esports Coaching course with a highly regarded coach based in Europe. This training equips them with strategies not only for running engaging sessions but also for building team dynamics, supporting emotional regulation, and encouraging leadership through play.
In line with the Intentional Peer Support framework outlined on our website, our Senior Peer Workers also receive monthly Peer Work Supervision. This allows them to continue reflecting, growing, and supporting others from a place of authenticity, empathy, and accountability.
We also offer one-to-one support during sessions, so we can meet each participant’s needs more personally. If someone is anxious, hesitant, or struggling to engage, they’re never left to figure it out alone. Our team is there, gently encouraging, listening, and guiding them back into connection.
More than a game: building a real community
The best part? It doesn’t stop at the screen.
We know that social interaction can be challenging for many autistic people – reading cues, starting conversations, or feeling confident in a group doesn’t always come easily. That’s why the connections formed at Ignition Gamers are so powerful.
We’ve seen young people who once found it hard to speak up, take the lead in group games. We’ve watched friendships grow between participants who’d previously struggled to find their place socially. And we’ve seen the relief on families’ faces when their loved one finds a space where they’re not just included – they’re understood, supported, and celebrated.
We also collaborate with other services, educators, and support coordinators to help our participants thrive in different areas of life – whether that’s education, work, or independent living. Because we believe growth doesn’t happen in isolation – it happens in a community.
Where we are now – and where we’re going
What started as a local project has grown into something much bigger. Today, we offer multiple face-to-face sessions throughout the week, role-playing tabletop games, and board games, with plans to expand our reach even further.
The best part? Our community extends beyond our sessions and screens, with social outings to the movies, gaming conferences, restaurants, and more. These experiences give our participants the chance to practise social interaction in real-life settings, deepen friendships, and explore new environments with the support of trusted peers.
At Ignition Gamers, we’re always listening, learning, and evolving. Still, our core remains the same: creating a safe, fun, and empowering space where young people with autism and hidden disabilities feel understood and supported.
And honestly? We’re just getting started. You can learn more by watching our interview with ABC News or reading the full story.
Want to see it for yourself?
If you’re looking for a place where your teen or young adult can feel confident, connected, and part of something real, we’d love to welcome you. All of our sessions are NDIS-friendly and can be claimed, depending on your plan. We’re proud to provide an NDIS-eligible activity, making it easier for families and support coordinators to access meaningful, community-based social support. Book a free trial session and come see the magic in action. Because we believe that when young people are supported to game together, they’re also learning how to live, grow, and thrive together.
