Robot helps children with autism interact with others in Gold Coast uni trial

Ulysses the humanoid robot might look like a toy, but he's 60 centimetres of scientific innovation and can interact with autism sufferers in a way that not even their parents can.

The robot has programmed responses, so children with autism feel safe and in control with him.

He teaches social skills, focus and persistence.

The $12,000 feat of science, which can do everything from tai chi to play soccer, is now being used at Bond University on the Gold Coast in the first trial of its kind in Australia.

Once children make friends with Ulysses, he then teaches them how to interact with other kids.

Autism affects about one in 100 people, which means 230 000 Australians are living with the condition.

The rates are four times higher in boys.