Calls for more support for families with children with autism.

It comes as police were called to the Palmerston North home of a 14-year-old boy with autism on Wednesday night after he had become violent.

The boy was taken to two residential care facilities, but was rejected from both and ended up spending the night in the police cells.

Chief executive of Autism New Zealand Dane Dougan said it's clear there's not enough suitable care for children with autism.

"I think there needs to be systemic change and it has to start at a government level," he said.

"We need to see more emphasis put on these teenagers and kids with autism, who need better support or different support than what they're getting now."

Looking after dependents with autism is a tough gig and, although people in the position do their best, Dougan said better support and training, especially in regards to care strategies, is vital.

"There's still a lack of awareness and a lack of training out there for those carers."