Header image

Program

 

 

A few things to note while navigating the program:

  • This program is interactive. You can click on each of the presenter sessions to view the presentation outline and presenter’s biography.
  • The conference sessions will run on AEST – Queensland time.
  • All sessions (excluding workshops) will be recorded and made available to delegates in the Resource Centre five business days after the conclusion of the conference
  • Each Room has a colour and symbol to help you locate your desired presentation onsite. Please notes that only sessions in Pink (Monarch Room) will be streamed live for our virtual OnAir attendees.
    • Yellow will take place in the JACARANDA ROOM 
    • Orange will take place in the PRINCE ROOM
    • Pink will take place in the MONARCH ROOM 
    • Blue will take place in the ROYAL POINCIANA ROOM 

 

Ready to register?  Click here.

To return to the website, click here.

 

Please email the NWC26 Team if you have any questions – nwc@anzmh.asn.au 

 

The 2026 Neurodivergence Wellbeing Conference reserves the right to amend or alter any advertised details relating to dates, program and presenters if necessary and without notice, as a result of circumstances beyond their control. All attempts will be made to keep any changes to an absolute minimum.


Sunday, September 27, 2026

Welcome
To
NWC
2026
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Gold Coast Glow: Sunset Picnic & Welcome Gathering
Kick off your conference experience with a relaxed evening with music under the warm Gold Coast sky. Join us on the RACV lawn from 5:00pm – 6:30pm for a casual picnic-style gathering where you can pre-purchase a picnic box which includes dinner, drink and dessert or come for a drink. It’s the perfect way to meet fellow delegates, connect before the sessions begin, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.
Welcome
To
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Gold Coast Glow: Sunset Picnic & Welcome Gathering
Kick off your conference experience with a relaxed evening with music under the warm Gold Coast sky. Join us on the RACV lawn from 5:00pm – 6:30pm for a casual picnic-style gathering where you can pre-purchase a picnic box which includes dinner, drink and dessert or come for a drink. It’s the perfect way to meet fellow delegates, connect before the sessions begin, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

NWC
2026
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Gold Coast Glow: Sunset Picnic & Welcome Gathering
Kick off your conference experience with a relaxed evening with music under the warm Gold Coast sky. Join us on the RACV lawn from 5:00pm – 6:30pm for a casual picnic-style gathering where you can pre-purchase a picnic box which includes dinner, drink and dessert or come for a drink. It’s the perfect way to meet fellow delegates, connect before the sessions begin, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

Welcome
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Gold Coast Glow: Sunset Picnic & Welcome Gathering
Kick off your conference experience with a relaxed evening with music under the warm Gold Coast sky. Join us on the RACV lawn from 5:00pm – 6:30pm for a casual picnic-style gathering where you can pre-purchase a picnic box which includes dinner, drink and dessert or come for a drink. It’s the perfect way to meet fellow delegates, connect before the sessions begin, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

To
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Gold Coast Glow: Sunset Picnic & Welcome Gathering
Kick off your conference experience with a relaxed evening with music under the warm Gold Coast sky. Join us on the RACV lawn from 5:00pm – 6:30pm for a casual picnic-style gathering where you can pre-purchase a picnic box which includes dinner, drink and dessert or come for a drink. It’s the perfect way to meet fellow delegates, connect before the sessions begin, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

NWC
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Gold Coast Glow: Sunset Picnic & Welcome Gathering
Kick off your conference experience with a relaxed evening with music under the warm Gold Coast sky. Join us on the RACV lawn from 5:00pm – 6:30pm for a casual picnic-style gathering where you can pre-purchase a picnic box which includes dinner, drink and dessert or come for a drink. It’s the perfect way to meet fellow delegates, connect before the sessions begin, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

2026
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM The Gold Coast Glow: Sunset Picnic & Welcome Gathering
Kick off your conference experience with a relaxed evening with music under the warm Gold Coast sky. Join us on the RACV lawn from 5:00pm – 6:30pm for a casual picnic-style gathering where you can pre-purchase a picnic box which includes dinner, drink and dessert or come for a drink. It’s the perfect way to meet fellow delegates, connect before the sessions begin, and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

Monday, September 28, 2026

Jacaranda - In-Person Only
Prince - In-Person Only
Monarch - In-Person & OnAIR
Royal Poinciana - In-Person Only
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM New & Solo Delegate Meet-Up
New to the conference or attending solo? Grab your name badge and a coffee from the cart and join us for a relaxed meet-and-greet before sessions begin. This is a friendly space to say hello, meet members of the conference committee, and connect with fellow delegates before the day gets underway. Whether you’re here for the first time or just want to make a few early connections, you’re warmly welcome to join in.
Conference Opening
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM Official Welcome & Housekeeping
8:50 AM - 9:50 AM From Systemic Pathologisation, to Humanising, Liberatory Care
Lumen Gorrie
9:50 AM - 10:20 AM Autism and Ageing: Challenges, Strengths and Opportunities
Dr Sandra Thom-Jones, Autistic Professor
10:20 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Research, Innovation & Policy for Change Systems of Influence: Education, Justice & Wellbeing Inclusion & Affirming Environments: Schools, Workplaces and Communities Neurodivergence, Complexity, Co-Occurrence & Wellbeing
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM Designing Success for the ADHD Brain: The ADHD Blueprint for Regulation, Structure, and Performance
Bart Traynor, Atlantis Recovery Centre 		Have You Tried Being Less Neurodivergent? Other Helpful System Design Strategies
Dr Rachelle Warner, Adelaide University 		Building Digital Sanctuary: Co‑Designing Virtual Sensory Spaces for Neurodivergent Learners
Debi Howarth, Kinderworld International Group & William Napa, Torrens University 		Misunderstood, Undiagnosed, and Unwell: A Neurodivergent Lens on What Is Really Driving Eating Disorders
Natasha Lane, Eating And Feeding
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM From Participation to Belonging: Bridging Research and Community to Support Autistic Wellbeing and Dignity
Dr Aida Hurem, Empower Autism & Michael Coles, Empower Autism 		Building Ramps Instead of Walls: Stakeholders’ Views of Living Well With Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Anita Gibbs, University Of Otago 		The Indie Project- A Creative Approach for Neurodivergent Young People Within Schools
Dom Shelley, Social Futures 		An Inside Job: Internalised Ableism and Long Term Capacity Management
Meghann Birks, Meghann Birks Coaching
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Working with Policy Change to Create Neurodiversity-Affirming Education
Emma-Rose Parsons, Spectrum House| Emma-Rose Consulting 		Growing Up Under Watch: Neurodivergent Youth, Identity, and Wellbeing in Justice Systems
Jennifer Althaus & Punya Saluja, Orange Elephants Creative Minds/Blue Baboon Reform Alliance 		Defining Inclusion: Exploring International Inclusive Education Models That Empower Neurodivergent Learners
Jane Hickey, Saints Knowledge Institute 		Neurodivergent Wellbeing: What Helps, What Harms, and What We Keep Getting Wrong
Shazzy Tharby, Positively Living
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch With Exhibitors
Neuro-Affirming Practice & Therapeutic Advancement Navigating Systems, Identity & Belonging Lived Experience Leadership & Storytelling for Change Inclusion & Affirming Environments: Schools, Workplaces and Communities
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM Beyond Picky Eating: A Nutritional Lens on Neurodivergent Eating Challenges
Court Garfoot, Juni Paediatrics 		Why We Don’t Reach Out: Rethinking Mental Health Engagement for LGBTQIA+ Neurodivergent Youth
Max Dumbrell 		Creative Practice as a Neurodivergent-Led System of Wellbeing and Support
Brendan Chippendale & Berinda Karp, Affirming Access 		Designing for Psychological Safety: Managerial Attitudes and ADHD Disclosure in Workspaces
Ruby Barlow, Victoria University Of Wellington
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM A Family-Centered Therapeutic Approach to Addressing Situational Mutism in Autistic Girls
Dr Nadia Louw, CAMHS 		Leading a Remote, Neurodivergent Team in Suicide Prevention: Innovation, Adaptation, and Lived Experience
Amie Joseph, Roses in the Ocean 		Supporting Neurodiversity Through Lived Experience Leadership
Emi O'Brien, Reachout Australia 		Interoception in Action: An Inclusive Framework for Student Wellbeing
Melissa Torres & Britney Evans-Mackay, Language Disorder Australia
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM Identity Before Diagnosis: He Was the Patient. She Was His Nurse. Now They’re Disrupting the System Together
Prue Anderson & Lachlan Hartup, T & K Support Services 		The Neurodiversity Initiative: Towards a Holistic Approach to Inclusive Tertiary Education
Dr Kristy Seymour, Griffith College Australia 		Knowing Others Were Walking the Same Path Made a Difference: The Power of Autistic-Led Facilitation
Natasha Barlow, Autism Queensland 		Neuro-Inclusion by Design: Workplaces That Work for Neurodivergent People
Selah Dimech, Neuraffirm
2:45 PM - 3:05 PM Why Good Therapy Fails Neurodivergent Clients – and How Clinicians Can Fix It
Amelia Read, The Neurodiverse Network 		The Cost of High Performance: Deconstructing the Cycle of Masking, RSD, and 2e Burnout
Annie Crowe, NeuroAccess 		From Selective Mutism to Social Impact: The Journey of an Autistic Founder
Keeley Johnson, Keeleys Cause 		Designing Genuine Inclusion: A Neuroaffirming Aquatic Therapy Model for Safety, Regulation, and Participation
Carol Jennings, Waterwombats
3:05 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Day 1 Closing Keynotes
3:30 PM - 3:35 PM Opening Remarks
3:35 PM - 4:00 PM Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM A Life and Practice: Neurodivergence, Intersectionality & Social Justice
Dr TC Waisman
5:05 PM - 6:30 PM The NWC Evening Social: A Space to Connect
You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors and Connections Lounge. Enjoy a relaxed evening featuring live music, local cuisine, and a selection of refreshments. Whether you’re eager to mingle with fellow delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors, or prefer to unwind quietly and take in the atmosphere, this event is designed to be welcoming and inclusive of all social styles, offering space for connection, reflection, and comfort.
Jacaranda - In-Person Only
Prince - In-Person Only
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM New & Solo Delegate Meet-Up
New to the conference or attending solo? Grab your name badge and a coffee from the cart and join us for a relaxed meet-and-greet before sessions begin. This is a friendly space to say hello, meet members of the conference committee, and connect with fellow delegates before the day gets underway. Whether you’re here for the first time or just want to make a few early connections, you’re warmly welcome to join in.
Conference Opening
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM Official Welcome & Housekeeping
8:50 AM - 9:50 AM From Systemic Pathologisation, to Humanising, Liberatory Care
Lumen Gorrie
9:50 AM - 10:20 AM Autism and Ageing: Challenges, Strengths and Opportunities
Dr Sandra Thom-Jones, Autistic Professor
10:20 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Research, Innovation & Policy for Change Systems of Influence: Education, Justice & Wellbeing
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM Designing Success for the ADHD Brain: The ADHD Blueprint for Regulation, Structure, and Performance
Bart Traynor, Atlantis Recovery Centre 		Have You Tried Being Less Neurodivergent? Other Helpful System Design Strategies
Dr Rachelle Warner, Adelaide University
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM From Participation to Belonging: Bridging Research and Community to Support Autistic Wellbeing and Dignity
Dr Aida Hurem, Empower Autism & Michael Coles, Empower Autism 		Building Ramps Instead of Walls: Stakeholders’ Views of Living Well With Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Anita Gibbs, University Of Otago
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Working with Policy Change to Create Neurodiversity-Affirming Education
Emma-Rose Parsons, Spectrum House| Emma-Rose Consulting 		Growing Up Under Watch: Neurodivergent Youth, Identity, and Wellbeing in Justice Systems
Jennifer Althaus & Punya Saluja, Orange Elephants Creative Minds/Blue Baboon Reform Alliance
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch With Exhibitors
Neuro-Affirming Practice & Therapeutic Advancement Navigating Systems, Identity & Belonging
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM Beyond Picky Eating: A Nutritional Lens on Neurodivergent Eating Challenges
Court Garfoot, Juni Paediatrics 		Why We Don’t Reach Out: Rethinking Mental Health Engagement for LGBTQIA+ Neurodivergent Youth
Max Dumbrell
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM A Family-Centered Therapeutic Approach to Addressing Situational Mutism in Autistic Girls
Dr Nadia Louw, CAMHS 		Leading a Remote, Neurodivergent Team in Suicide Prevention: Innovation, Adaptation, and Lived Experience
Amie Joseph, Roses in the Ocean
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM Identity Before Diagnosis: He Was the Patient. She Was His Nurse. Now They’re Disrupting the System Together
Prue Anderson & Lachlan Hartup, T & K Support Services 		The Neurodiversity Initiative: Towards a Holistic Approach to Inclusive Tertiary Education
Dr Kristy Seymour, Griffith College Australia
2:45 PM - 3:05 PM Why Good Therapy Fails Neurodivergent Clients – and How Clinicians Can Fix It
Amelia Read, The Neurodiverse Network 		The Cost of High Performance: Deconstructing the Cycle of Masking, RSD, and 2e Burnout
Annie Crowe, NeuroAccess
3:05 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Day 1 Closing Keynotes
3:30 PM - 3:35 PM Opening Remarks
3:35 PM - 4:00 PM Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM A Life and Practice: Neurodivergence, Intersectionality & Social Justice
Dr TC Waisman
5:05 PM - 6:30 PM The NWC Evening Social: A Space to Connect
You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors and Connections Lounge. Enjoy a relaxed evening featuring live music, local cuisine, and a selection of refreshments. Whether you’re eager to mingle with fellow delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors, or prefer to unwind quietly and take in the atmosphere, this event is designed to be welcoming and inclusive of all social styles, offering space for connection, reflection, and comfort.

Monarch - In-Person & OnAIR
Royal Poinciana - In-Person Only
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM New & Solo Delegate Meet-Up
New to the conference or attending solo? Grab your name badge and a coffee from the cart and join us for a relaxed meet-and-greet before sessions begin. This is a friendly space to say hello, meet members of the conference committee, and connect with fellow delegates before the day gets underway. Whether you’re here for the first time or just want to make a few early connections, you’re warmly welcome to join in.
Conference Opening
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM Official Welcome & Housekeeping
8:50 AM - 9:50 AM From Systemic Pathologisation, to Humanising, Liberatory Care
Lumen Gorrie
9:50 AM - 10:20 AM Autism and Ageing: Challenges, Strengths and Opportunities
Dr Sandra Thom-Jones, Autistic Professor
10:20 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Inclusion & Affirming Environments: Schools, Workplaces and Communities Neurodivergence, Complexity, Co-Occurrence & Wellbeing
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM Building Digital Sanctuary: Co‑Designing Virtual Sensory Spaces for Neurodivergent Learners
Debi Howarth, Kinderworld International Group & William Napa, Torrens University 		Misunderstood, Undiagnosed, and Unwell: A Neurodivergent Lens on What Is Really Driving Eating Disorders
Natasha Lane, Eating And Feeding
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM The Indie Project- A Creative Approach for Neurodivergent Young People Within Schools
Dom Shelley, Social Futures 		An Inside Job: Internalised Ableism and Long Term Capacity Management
Meghann Birks, Meghann Birks Coaching
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Defining Inclusion: Exploring International Inclusive Education Models That Empower Neurodivergent Learners
Jane Hickey, Saints Knowledge Institute 		Neurodivergent Wellbeing: What Helps, What Harms, and What We Keep Getting Wrong
Shazzy Tharby, Positively Living
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch With Exhibitors
Lived Experience Leadership & Storytelling for Change Inclusion & Affirming Environments: Schools, Workplaces and Communities
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM Creative Practice as a Neurodivergent-Led System of Wellbeing and Support
Brendan Chippendale & Berinda Karp, Affirming Access 		Designing for Psychological Safety: Managerial Attitudes and ADHD Disclosure in Workspaces
Ruby Barlow, Victoria University Of Wellington
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM Supporting Neurodiversity Through Lived Experience Leadership
Emi O'Brien, Reachout Australia 		Interoception in Action: An Inclusive Framework for Student Wellbeing
Melissa Torres & Britney Evans-Mackay, Language Disorder Australia
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM Knowing Others Were Walking the Same Path Made a Difference: The Power of Autistic-Led Facilitation
Natasha Barlow, Autism Queensland 		Neuro-Inclusion by Design: Workplaces That Work for Neurodivergent People
Selah Dimech, Neuraffirm
2:45 PM - 3:05 PM From Selective Mutism to Social Impact: The Journey of an Autistic Founder
Keeley Johnson, Keeleys Cause 		Designing Genuine Inclusion: A Neuroaffirming Aquatic Therapy Model for Safety, Regulation, and Participation
Carol Jennings, Waterwombats
3:05 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Day 1 Closing Keynotes
3:30 PM - 3:35 PM Opening Remarks
3:35 PM - 4:00 PM Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM A Life and Practice: Neurodivergence, Intersectionality & Social Justice
Dr TC Waisman
5:05 PM - 6:30 PM The NWC Evening Social: A Space to Connect
You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors and Connections Lounge. Enjoy a relaxed evening featuring live music, local cuisine, and a selection of refreshments. Whether you’re eager to mingle with fellow delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors, or prefer to unwind quietly and take in the atmosphere, this event is designed to be welcoming and inclusive of all social styles, offering space for connection, reflection, and comfort.

Jacaranda - In-Person Only
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM New & Solo Delegate Meet-Up
New to the conference or attending solo? Grab your name badge and a coffee from the cart and join us for a relaxed meet-and-greet before sessions begin. This is a friendly space to say hello, meet members of the conference committee, and connect with fellow delegates before the day gets underway. Whether you’re here for the first time or just want to make a few early connections, you’re warmly welcome to join in.
Conference Opening
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM Official Welcome & Housekeeping
8:50 AM - 9:50 AM From Systemic Pathologisation, to Humanising, Liberatory Care
Lumen Gorrie
9:50 AM - 10:20 AM Autism and Ageing: Challenges, Strengths and Opportunities
Dr Sandra Thom-Jones, Autistic Professor
10:20 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Research, Innovation & Policy for Change
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM Designing Success for the ADHD Brain: The ADHD Blueprint for Regulation, Structure, and Performance
Bart Traynor, Atlantis Recovery Centre
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM From Participation to Belonging: Bridging Research and Community to Support Autistic Wellbeing and Dignity
Dr Aida Hurem, Empower Autism & Michael Coles, Empower Autism
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Working with Policy Change to Create Neurodiversity-Affirming Education
Emma-Rose Parsons, Spectrum House| Emma-Rose Consulting
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch With Exhibitors
Neuro-Affirming Practice & Therapeutic Advancement
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM Beyond Picky Eating: A Nutritional Lens on Neurodivergent Eating Challenges
Court Garfoot, Juni Paediatrics
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM A Family-Centered Therapeutic Approach to Addressing Situational Mutism in Autistic Girls
Dr Nadia Louw, CAMHS
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM Identity Before Diagnosis: He Was the Patient. She Was His Nurse. Now They’re Disrupting the System Together
Prue Anderson & Lachlan Hartup, T & K Support Services
2:45 PM - 3:05 PM Why Good Therapy Fails Neurodivergent Clients – and How Clinicians Can Fix It
Amelia Read, The Neurodiverse Network
3:05 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Day 1 Closing Keynotes
3:30 PM - 3:35 PM Opening Remarks
3:35 PM - 4:00 PM Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM A Life and Practice: Neurodivergence, Intersectionality & Social Justice
Dr TC Waisman
5:05 PM - 6:30 PM The NWC Evening Social: A Space to Connect
You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors and Connections Lounge. Enjoy a relaxed evening featuring live music, local cuisine, and a selection of refreshments. Whether you’re eager to mingle with fellow delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors, or prefer to unwind quietly and take in the atmosphere, this event is designed to be welcoming and inclusive of all social styles, offering space for connection, reflection, and comfort.

Prince - In-Person Only
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM New & Solo Delegate Meet-Up
New to the conference or attending solo? Grab your name badge and a coffee from the cart and join us for a relaxed meet-and-greet before sessions begin. This is a friendly space to say hello, meet members of the conference committee, and connect with fellow delegates before the day gets underway. Whether you’re here for the first time or just want to make a few early connections, you’re warmly welcome to join in.
Conference Opening
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM Official Welcome & Housekeeping
8:50 AM - 9:50 AM From Systemic Pathologisation, to Humanising, Liberatory Care
Lumen Gorrie
9:50 AM - 10:20 AM Autism and Ageing: Challenges, Strengths and Opportunities
Dr Sandra Thom-Jones, Autistic Professor
10:20 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Systems of Influence: Education, Justice & Wellbeing
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM Have You Tried Being Less Neurodivergent? Other Helpful System Design Strategies
Dr Rachelle Warner, Adelaide University
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM Building Ramps Instead of Walls: Stakeholders’ Views of Living Well With Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Anita Gibbs, University Of Otago
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Growing Up Under Watch: Neurodivergent Youth, Identity, and Wellbeing in Justice Systems
Jennifer Althaus & Punya Saluja, Orange Elephants Creative Minds/Blue Baboon Reform Alliance
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch With Exhibitors
Navigating Systems, Identity & Belonging
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM Why We Don’t Reach Out: Rethinking Mental Health Engagement for LGBTQIA+ Neurodivergent Youth
Max Dumbrell
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM Leading a Remote, Neurodivergent Team in Suicide Prevention: Innovation, Adaptation, and Lived Experience
Amie Joseph, Roses in the Ocean
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM The Neurodiversity Initiative: Towards a Holistic Approach to Inclusive Tertiary Education
Dr Kristy Seymour, Griffith College Australia
2:45 PM - 3:05 PM The Cost of High Performance: Deconstructing the Cycle of Masking, RSD, and 2e Burnout
Annie Crowe, NeuroAccess
3:05 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Day 1 Closing Keynotes
3:30 PM - 3:35 PM Opening Remarks
3:35 PM - 4:00 PM Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM A Life and Practice: Neurodivergence, Intersectionality & Social Justice
Dr TC Waisman
5:05 PM - 6:30 PM The NWC Evening Social: A Space to Connect
You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors and Connections Lounge. Enjoy a relaxed evening featuring live music, local cuisine, and a selection of refreshments. Whether you’re eager to mingle with fellow delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors, or prefer to unwind quietly and take in the atmosphere, this event is designed to be welcoming and inclusive of all social styles, offering space for connection, reflection, and comfort.

Monarch - In-Person & OnAIR
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM New & Solo Delegate Meet-Up
New to the conference or attending solo? Grab your name badge and a coffee from the cart and join us for a relaxed meet-and-greet before sessions begin. This is a friendly space to say hello, meet members of the conference committee, and connect with fellow delegates before the day gets underway. Whether you’re here for the first time or just want to make a few early connections, you’re warmly welcome to join in.
Conference Opening
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM Official Welcome & Housekeeping
8:50 AM - 9:50 AM From Systemic Pathologisation, to Humanising, Liberatory Care
Lumen Gorrie
9:50 AM - 10:20 AM Autism and Ageing: Challenges, Strengths and Opportunities
Dr Sandra Thom-Jones, Autistic Professor
10:20 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Inclusion & Affirming Environments: Schools, Workplaces and Communities
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM Building Digital Sanctuary: Co‑Designing Virtual Sensory Spaces for Neurodivergent Learners
Debi Howarth, Kinderworld International Group & William Napa, Torrens University
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM The Indie Project- A Creative Approach for Neurodivergent Young People Within Schools
Dom Shelley, Social Futures
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Defining Inclusion: Exploring International Inclusive Education Models That Empower Neurodivergent Learners
Jane Hickey, Saints Knowledge Institute
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch With Exhibitors
Lived Experience Leadership & Storytelling for Change
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM Creative Practice as a Neurodivergent-Led System of Wellbeing and Support
Brendan Chippendale & Berinda Karp, Affirming Access
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM Supporting Neurodiversity Through Lived Experience Leadership
Emi O'Brien, Reachout Australia
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM Knowing Others Were Walking the Same Path Made a Difference: The Power of Autistic-Led Facilitation
Natasha Barlow, Autism Queensland
2:45 PM - 3:05 PM From Selective Mutism to Social Impact: The Journey of an Autistic Founder
Keeley Johnson, Keeleys Cause
3:05 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Day 1 Closing Keynotes
3:30 PM - 3:35 PM Opening Remarks
3:35 PM - 4:00 PM Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM A Life and Practice: Neurodivergence, Intersectionality & Social Justice
Dr TC Waisman
5:05 PM - 6:30 PM The NWC Evening Social: A Space to Connect
You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors and Connections Lounge. Enjoy a relaxed evening featuring live music, local cuisine, and a selection of refreshments. Whether you’re eager to mingle with fellow delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors, or prefer to unwind quietly and take in the atmosphere, this event is designed to be welcoming and inclusive of all social styles, offering space for connection, reflection, and comfort.

Royal Poinciana - In-Person Only
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM Registration and Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come and say hello to the Conference Team and collect your Name Badge!
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM New & Solo Delegate Meet-Up
New to the conference or attending solo? Grab your name badge and a coffee from the cart and join us for a relaxed meet-and-greet before sessions begin. This is a friendly space to say hello, meet members of the conference committee, and connect with fellow delegates before the day gets underway. Whether you’re here for the first time or just want to make a few early connections, you’re warmly welcome to join in.
Conference Opening
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM Official Welcome & Housekeeping
8:50 AM - 9:50 AM From Systemic Pathologisation, to Humanising, Liberatory Care
Lumen Gorrie
9:50 AM - 10:20 AM Autism and Ageing: Challenges, Strengths and Opportunities
Dr Sandra Thom-Jones, Autistic Professor
10:20 AM - 10:50 AM
Morning Tea With Exhibitors
Neurodivergence, Complexity, Co-Occurrence & Wellbeing
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM Misunderstood, Undiagnosed, and Unwell: A Neurodivergent Lens on What Is Really Driving Eating Disorders
Natasha Lane, Eating And Feeding
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM An Inside Job: Internalised Ableism and Long Term Capacity Management
Meghann Birks, Meghann Birks Coaching
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Neurodivergent Wellbeing: What Helps, What Harms, and What We Keep Getting Wrong
Shazzy Tharby, Positively Living
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Lunch With Exhibitors
Inclusion & Affirming Environments: Schools, Workplaces and Communities
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM Designing for Psychological Safety: Managerial Attitudes and ADHD Disclosure in Workspaces
Ruby Barlow, Victoria University Of Wellington
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM Interoception in Action: An Inclusive Framework for Student Wellbeing
Melissa Torres & Britney Evans-Mackay, Language Disorder Australia
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM Neuro-Inclusion by Design: Workplaces That Work for Neurodivergent People
Selah Dimech, Neuraffirm
2:45 PM - 3:05 PM Designing Genuine Inclusion: A Neuroaffirming Aquatic Therapy Model for Safety, Regulation, and Participation
Carol Jennings, Waterwombats
3:05 PM - 3:30 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Day 1 Closing Keynotes
3:30 PM - 3:35 PM Opening Remarks
3:35 PM - 4:00 PM Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
Professor Beth Saggers, Education Services Australia
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM A Life and Practice: Neurodivergence, Intersectionality & Social Justice
Dr TC Waisman
5:05 PM - 6:30 PM The NWC Evening Social: A Space to Connect
You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors and Connections Lounge. Enjoy a relaxed evening featuring live music, local cuisine, and a selection of refreshments. Whether you’re eager to mingle with fellow delegates, sponsors, and exhibitors, or prefer to unwind quietly and take in the atmosphere, this event is designed to be welcoming and inclusive of all social styles, offering space for connection, reflection, and comfort.

Tuesday, September 29, 2026

Jacaranda - In-Person Only
Prince Room - In-Person Only
Monarch - In-Person & OnAIR
Royal Poinciana - In-Person Only
Virtual Only
7:45 AM - 8:20 AM Breathwork
Morning Coffee Connections
Start Day Two with a relaxed and meaningful conversation. Grab your favourite morning beverage from the onsite cart and join a Morning Coffee Connections table in the main plenary. Each table will centre on a key question or theme within neurodivergent wellbeing — giving you the chance to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, and spark collaboration before sessions begin.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Registration & Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come say hello and collect your name badge
Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Day 2 Welcome & Housekeeping
Conference Emcee: Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Academy
8:40 AM - 9:25 AM Beyond Deficit: Language, Identity & Liberation in Neurodivergent Wellbeing
Mish Kumar Jonson, Principal Practitioner and Director; Niram EMDR and Trauma Counselling
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM Beyond People-Pleasing: Communication, Connection, Conflict, and Repair in Neurodivergent Relationships
Kai Schweizer, University Of Western Australia | The Kids Research Institute Australia
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Morning Tea in Exhibition
10:25 AM - 10:45 AM Poster Display
Bring your morning tea to the Poster Displays to meet with the authors and discuss their work.
Neuro-affirming Practice & Therapeutic Advancement Lived Experience Leadership & Storytelling for Change Intersections of Identity & Identity-Affirming Care: Culture, Gender, Sexuality & More Identity, Wellbeing & Self-Understanding
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM When Parents Struggle Too: Executive Functioning Support for Neurodivergent Families
Megan Doherty, Eli's Place Allied Health 		Setting the Table to Create Authentic Connections for Neuroaffirming Environments
Jacinta Critchley & Kylie Clark-Parry, Lyn Beazley Academy 		Systems Designed by Unicorns: Why People With Multiple Marginalised Identities Keep Crashing Them
Dr Rachelle Warner, Adelaide University 		Rethinking Wellbeing for Neurodivergent Youth: Developing a Lived-Experience Framework
Rebecca McCash, FutureTech Association Australia Incorporated
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM Understanding The Role of Complex Trauma, and Maladaptive Schemas in Neurodivergent Individuals
Dr Ozgur Yalcin, Anima Health Network 		When Lived Experience Leads: Palatability, Power, Neurodivergent Leadership and Wellbeing
Den Abreu, Haven Psychology Centre Pty Ltd 		Pride In Neurodivergence - Unveiling Neurodivergent LGBTQ+ Experiences in the Workplace
CB Bonnar, Pride in Diversity - ACON's Pride Inclusion Programs 		Decoding Distress: Practical Tools for Parents to Navigate Emotions and Behaviour
Morgana Walker, Morgana Walker Psychology
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM Beyond Behaviour: A Responsive, Regulation-Based Approach to Feeding in Neurodivergent People
Dr Rachel Zabel, Fun Family Food 		Listening, Learning, Leading: Empowering Autistic and Neurodivergent Women Through Co-Designed Services
Dr Caitlin Taggart & Natasha Barlow, Autism Queensland 		Voices First: A Scoping Review of Asian Families’ Neurodiversity Experiences in Aotearoa New Zealand
Deng Hongjuan, The University of Auckland 		How Discovering an Autistic Identity in Adulthood Impacts Work, Career, and Wellbeing
Michalina Lisik, Griffith University | PEXA
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Puppy Therapy
Two Hours of Pure Joy
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch in the Exhibition
Workshop One - In Person Only
Workshop Two - In Person Only
Workshop Three - In Person Only
Workshop Four - In Person Only
Understanding the Neurodivergent Self
Virtual Only
1:25 PM - 2:25 PM From Awareness to Affirmation: Neuro Affirming Practice for Supporting People with FASD
Emma McDougall, NOFASD Australia 		Neurodiverse Safe Work - More Than Just Noise Cancelling Headphones
Ms Catherine Lee, The Neurodiverse Safe Work Initiative 		From Values to Practice: Translating Neurodivergent-Affirming Care into Therapeutic Decisions
Den Abreu, Haven Psychology Centre Pty Ltd 		Neurodivergent-accessible Trauma Informed Practice - Designing Services That Actually Work
Tanya Brooks-Cooper 		Pre-Recorded Sessions
Ruth Minkov, Mindkit | Stephanie Robertson, Sgr Occupational Therapy | Patrick Casale, All Things Private Practice & Resilient Mind Counselling
2:25 PM - 2:50 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Closing Keynotes
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM It's Not Us, It's the System: Redesigning Education for Neurodivergent Belonging
Aaron Saint-James, University of NSW
4:00 PM - 4:10 PM Closing Celebration
Jacaranda - In-Person Only
Prince Room - In-Person Only
7:45 AM - 8:20 AM Breathwork
Morning Coffee Connections
Start Day Two with a relaxed and meaningful conversation. Grab your favourite morning beverage from the onsite cart and join a Morning Coffee Connections table in the main plenary. Each table will centre on a key question or theme within neurodivergent wellbeing — giving you the chance to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, and spark collaboration before sessions begin.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Registration & Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come say hello and collect your name badge
Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Day 2 Welcome & Housekeeping
Conference Emcee: Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Academy
8:40 AM - 9:25 AM Beyond Deficit: Language, Identity & Liberation in Neurodivergent Wellbeing
Mish Kumar Jonson, Principal Practitioner and Director; Niram EMDR and Trauma Counselling
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM Beyond People-Pleasing: Communication, Connection, Conflict, and Repair in Neurodivergent Relationships
Kai Schweizer, University Of Western Australia | The Kids Research Institute Australia
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Morning Tea in Exhibition
10:25 AM - 10:45 AM Poster Display
Bring your morning tea to the Poster Displays to meet with the authors and discuss their work.
Neuro-affirming Practice & Therapeutic Advancement Lived Experience Leadership & Storytelling for Change
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM When Parents Struggle Too: Executive Functioning Support for Neurodivergent Families
Megan Doherty, Eli's Place Allied Health 		Setting the Table to Create Authentic Connections for Neuroaffirming Environments
Jacinta Critchley & Kylie Clark-Parry, Lyn Beazley Academy
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM Understanding The Role of Complex Trauma, and Maladaptive Schemas in Neurodivergent Individuals
Dr Ozgur Yalcin, Anima Health Network 		When Lived Experience Leads: Palatability, Power, Neurodivergent Leadership and Wellbeing
Den Abreu, Haven Psychology Centre Pty Ltd
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM Beyond Behaviour: A Responsive, Regulation-Based Approach to Feeding in Neurodivergent People
Dr Rachel Zabel, Fun Family Food 		Listening, Learning, Leading: Empowering Autistic and Neurodivergent Women Through Co-Designed Services
Dr Caitlin Taggart & Natasha Barlow, Autism Queensland
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Puppy Therapy
Two Hours of Pure Joy
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch in the Exhibition
Workshop One - In Person Only
Workshop Two - In Person Only
1:25 PM - 2:25 PM From Awareness to Affirmation: Neuro Affirming Practice for Supporting People with FASD
Emma McDougall, NOFASD Australia 		Neurodiverse Safe Work - More Than Just Noise Cancelling Headphones
Ms Catherine Lee, The Neurodiverse Safe Work Initiative
2:25 PM - 2:50 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Closing Keynotes
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM It's Not Us, It's the System: Redesigning Education for Neurodivergent Belonging
Aaron Saint-James, University of NSW
4:00 PM - 4:10 PM Closing Celebration

Monarch - In-Person & OnAIR
Royal Poinciana - In-Person Only
7:45 AM - 8:20 AM Breathwork
Morning Coffee Connections
Start Day Two with a relaxed and meaningful conversation. Grab your favourite morning beverage from the onsite cart and join a Morning Coffee Connections table in the main plenary. Each table will centre on a key question or theme within neurodivergent wellbeing — giving you the chance to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, and spark collaboration before sessions begin.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Registration & Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come say hello and collect your name badge
Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Day 2 Welcome & Housekeeping
Conference Emcee: Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Academy
8:40 AM - 9:25 AM Beyond Deficit: Language, Identity & Liberation in Neurodivergent Wellbeing
Mish Kumar Jonson, Principal Practitioner and Director; Niram EMDR and Trauma Counselling
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM Beyond People-Pleasing: Communication, Connection, Conflict, and Repair in Neurodivergent Relationships
Kai Schweizer, University Of Western Australia | The Kids Research Institute Australia
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Morning Tea in Exhibition
10:25 AM - 10:45 AM Poster Display
Bring your morning tea to the Poster Displays to meet with the authors and discuss their work.
Intersections of Identity & Identity-Affirming Care: Culture, Gender, Sexuality & More Identity, Wellbeing & Self-Understanding
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Systems Designed by Unicorns: Why People With Multiple Marginalised Identities Keep Crashing Them
Dr Rachelle Warner, Adelaide University 		Rethinking Wellbeing for Neurodivergent Youth: Developing a Lived-Experience Framework
Rebecca McCash, FutureTech Association Australia Incorporated
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM Pride In Neurodivergence - Unveiling Neurodivergent LGBTQ+ Experiences in the Workplace
CB Bonnar, Pride in Diversity - ACON's Pride Inclusion Programs 		Decoding Distress: Practical Tools for Parents to Navigate Emotions and Behaviour
Morgana Walker, Morgana Walker Psychology
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM Voices First: A Scoping Review of Asian Families’ Neurodiversity Experiences in Aotearoa New Zealand
Deng Hongjuan, The University of Auckland 		How Discovering an Autistic Identity in Adulthood Impacts Work, Career, and Wellbeing
Michalina Lisik, Griffith University | PEXA
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Puppy Therapy
Two Hours of Pure Joy
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch in the Exhibition
Workshop Three - In Person Only
Workshop Four - In Person Only
1:25 PM - 2:25 PM From Values to Practice: Translating Neurodivergent-Affirming Care into Therapeutic Decisions
Den Abreu, Haven Psychology Centre Pty Ltd 		Neurodivergent-accessible Trauma Informed Practice - Designing Services That Actually Work
Tanya Brooks-Cooper
2:25 PM - 2:50 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Closing Keynotes
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM It's Not Us, It's the System: Redesigning Education for Neurodivergent Belonging
Aaron Saint-James, University of NSW
4:00 PM - 4:10 PM Closing Celebration

Virtual Only
7:45 AM - 8:20 AM Breathwork
Morning Coffee Connections
Start Day Two with a relaxed and meaningful conversation. Grab your favourite morning beverage from the onsite cart and join a Morning Coffee Connections table in the main plenary. Each table will centre on a key question or theme within neurodivergent wellbeing — giving you the chance to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, and spark collaboration before sessions begin.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Registration & Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come say hello and collect your name badge
Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Day 2 Welcome & Housekeeping
Conference Emcee: Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Academy
8:40 AM - 9:25 AM Beyond Deficit: Language, Identity & Liberation in Neurodivergent Wellbeing
Mish Kumar Jonson, Principal Practitioner and Director; Niram EMDR and Trauma Counselling
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM Beyond People-Pleasing: Communication, Connection, Conflict, and Repair in Neurodivergent Relationships
Kai Schweizer, University Of Western Australia | The Kids Research Institute Australia
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Morning Tea in Exhibition
10:25 AM - 10:45 AM Poster Display
Bring your morning tea to the Poster Displays to meet with the authors and discuss their work.
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Puppy Therapy
Two Hours of Pure Joy
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch in the Exhibition
Understanding the Neurodivergent Self
Virtual Only
1:25 PM - 2:25 PM Pre-Recorded Sessions
Ruth Minkov, Mindkit | Stephanie Robertson, Sgr Occupational Therapy | Patrick Casale, All Things Private Practice & Resilient Mind Counselling
2:25 PM - 2:50 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Closing Keynotes
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM It's Not Us, It's the System: Redesigning Education for Neurodivergent Belonging
Aaron Saint-James, University of NSW
4:00 PM - 4:10 PM Closing Celebration

Jacaranda - In-Person Only
7:45 AM - 8:20 AM Breathwork
Morning Coffee Connections
Start Day Two with a relaxed and meaningful conversation. Grab your favourite morning beverage from the onsite cart and join a Morning Coffee Connections table in the main plenary. Each table will centre on a key question or theme within neurodivergent wellbeing — giving you the chance to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, and spark collaboration before sessions begin.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Registration & Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come say hello and collect your name badge
Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Day 2 Welcome & Housekeeping
Conference Emcee: Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Academy
8:40 AM - 9:25 AM Beyond Deficit: Language, Identity & Liberation in Neurodivergent Wellbeing
Mish Kumar Jonson, Principal Practitioner and Director; Niram EMDR and Trauma Counselling
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM Beyond People-Pleasing: Communication, Connection, Conflict, and Repair in Neurodivergent Relationships
Kai Schweizer, University Of Western Australia | The Kids Research Institute Australia
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Morning Tea in Exhibition
10:25 AM - 10:45 AM Poster Display
Bring your morning tea to the Poster Displays to meet with the authors and discuss their work.
Neuro-affirming Practice & Therapeutic Advancement
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM When Parents Struggle Too: Executive Functioning Support for Neurodivergent Families
Megan Doherty, Eli's Place Allied Health
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM Understanding The Role of Complex Trauma, and Maladaptive Schemas in Neurodivergent Individuals
Dr Ozgur Yalcin, Anima Health Network
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM Beyond Behaviour: A Responsive, Regulation-Based Approach to Feeding in Neurodivergent People
Dr Rachel Zabel, Fun Family Food
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Puppy Therapy
Two Hours of Pure Joy
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch in the Exhibition
Workshop One - In Person Only
1:25 PM - 2:25 PM From Awareness to Affirmation: Neuro Affirming Practice for Supporting People with FASD
Emma McDougall, NOFASD Australia
2:25 PM - 2:50 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Closing Keynotes
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM It's Not Us, It's the System: Redesigning Education for Neurodivergent Belonging
Aaron Saint-James, University of NSW
4:00 PM - 4:10 PM Closing Celebration

Prince Room - In-Person Only
7:45 AM - 8:20 AM Breathwork
Morning Coffee Connections
Start Day Two with a relaxed and meaningful conversation. Grab your favourite morning beverage from the onsite cart and join a Morning Coffee Connections table in the main plenary. Each table will centre on a key question or theme within neurodivergent wellbeing — giving you the chance to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, and spark collaboration before sessions begin.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Registration & Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come say hello and collect your name badge
Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Day 2 Welcome & Housekeeping
Conference Emcee: Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Academy
8:40 AM - 9:25 AM Beyond Deficit: Language, Identity & Liberation in Neurodivergent Wellbeing
Mish Kumar Jonson, Principal Practitioner and Director; Niram EMDR and Trauma Counselling
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM Beyond People-Pleasing: Communication, Connection, Conflict, and Repair in Neurodivergent Relationships
Kai Schweizer, University Of Western Australia | The Kids Research Institute Australia
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Morning Tea in Exhibition
10:25 AM - 10:45 AM Poster Display
Bring your morning tea to the Poster Displays to meet with the authors and discuss their work.
Lived Experience Leadership & Storytelling for Change
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Setting the Table to Create Authentic Connections for Neuroaffirming Environments
Jacinta Critchley & Kylie Clark-Parry, Lyn Beazley Academy
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM When Lived Experience Leads: Palatability, Power, Neurodivergent Leadership and Wellbeing
Den Abreu, Haven Psychology Centre Pty Ltd
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM Listening, Learning, Leading: Empowering Autistic and Neurodivergent Women Through Co-Designed Services
Dr Caitlin Taggart & Natasha Barlow, Autism Queensland
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Puppy Therapy
Two Hours of Pure Joy
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch in the Exhibition
Workshop Two - In Person Only
1:25 PM - 2:25 PM Neurodiverse Safe Work - More Than Just Noise Cancelling Headphones
Ms Catherine Lee, The Neurodiverse Safe Work Initiative
2:25 PM - 2:50 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Closing Keynotes
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM It's Not Us, It's the System: Redesigning Education for Neurodivergent Belonging
Aaron Saint-James, University of NSW
4:00 PM - 4:10 PM Closing Celebration

Monarch - In-Person & OnAIR
7:45 AM - 8:20 AM Breathwork
Morning Coffee Connections
Start Day Two with a relaxed and meaningful conversation. Grab your favourite morning beverage from the onsite cart and join a Morning Coffee Connections table in the main plenary. Each table will centre on a key question or theme within neurodivergent wellbeing — giving you the chance to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, and spark collaboration before sessions begin.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Registration & Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come say hello and collect your name badge
Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Day 2 Welcome & Housekeeping
Conference Emcee: Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Academy
8:40 AM - 9:25 AM Beyond Deficit: Language, Identity & Liberation in Neurodivergent Wellbeing
Mish Kumar Jonson, Principal Practitioner and Director; Niram EMDR and Trauma Counselling
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM Beyond People-Pleasing: Communication, Connection, Conflict, and Repair in Neurodivergent Relationships
Kai Schweizer, University Of Western Australia | The Kids Research Institute Australia
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Morning Tea in Exhibition
10:25 AM - 10:45 AM Poster Display
Bring your morning tea to the Poster Displays to meet with the authors and discuss their work.
Intersections of Identity & Identity-Affirming Care: Culture, Gender, Sexuality & More
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Systems Designed by Unicorns: Why People With Multiple Marginalised Identities Keep Crashing Them
Dr Rachelle Warner, Adelaide University
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM Pride In Neurodivergence - Unveiling Neurodivergent LGBTQ+ Experiences in the Workplace
CB Bonnar, Pride in Diversity - ACON's Pride Inclusion Programs
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM Voices First: A Scoping Review of Asian Families’ Neurodiversity Experiences in Aotearoa New Zealand
Deng Hongjuan, The University of Auckland
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Puppy Therapy
Two Hours of Pure Joy
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch in the Exhibition
Workshop Three - In Person Only
1:25 PM - 2:25 PM From Values to Practice: Translating Neurodivergent-Affirming Care into Therapeutic Decisions
Den Abreu, Haven Psychology Centre Pty Ltd
2:25 PM - 2:50 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Closing Keynotes
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM It's Not Us, It's the System: Redesigning Education for Neurodivergent Belonging
Aaron Saint-James, University of NSW
4:00 PM - 4:10 PM Closing Celebration

Royal Poinciana - In-Person Only
7:45 AM - 8:20 AM Breathwork
Morning Coffee Connections
Start Day Two with a relaxed and meaningful conversation. Grab your favourite morning beverage from the onsite cart and join a Morning Coffee Connections table in the main plenary. Each table will centre on a key question or theme within neurodivergent wellbeing — giving you the chance to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, and spark collaboration before sessions begin.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Registration & Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come say hello and collect your name badge
Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Day 2 Welcome & Housekeeping
Conference Emcee: Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Academy
8:40 AM - 9:25 AM Beyond Deficit: Language, Identity & Liberation in Neurodivergent Wellbeing
Mish Kumar Jonson, Principal Practitioner and Director; Niram EMDR and Trauma Counselling
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM Beyond People-Pleasing: Communication, Connection, Conflict, and Repair in Neurodivergent Relationships
Kai Schweizer, University Of Western Australia | The Kids Research Institute Australia
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Morning Tea in Exhibition
10:25 AM - 10:45 AM Poster Display
Bring your morning tea to the Poster Displays to meet with the authors and discuss their work.
Identity, Wellbeing & Self-Understanding
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM Rethinking Wellbeing for Neurodivergent Youth: Developing a Lived-Experience Framework
Rebecca McCash, FutureTech Association Australia Incorporated
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM Decoding Distress: Practical Tools for Parents to Navigate Emotions and Behaviour
Morgana Walker, Morgana Walker Psychology
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM How Discovering an Autistic Identity in Adulthood Impacts Work, Career, and Wellbeing
Michalina Lisik, Griffith University | PEXA
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Puppy Therapy
Two Hours of Pure Joy
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch in the Exhibition
Workshop Four - In Person Only
1:25 PM - 2:25 PM Neurodivergent-accessible Trauma Informed Practice - Designing Services That Actually Work
Tanya Brooks-Cooper
2:25 PM - 2:50 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Closing Keynotes
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM It's Not Us, It's the System: Redesigning Education for Neurodivergent Belonging
Aaron Saint-James, University of NSW
4:00 PM - 4:10 PM Closing Celebration

Virtual Only
7:45 AM - 8:20 AM Breathwork
Morning Coffee Connections
Start Day Two with a relaxed and meaningful conversation. Grab your favourite morning beverage from the onsite cart and join a Morning Coffee Connections table in the main plenary. Each table will centre on a key question or theme within neurodivergent wellbeing — giving you the chance to meet like-minded peers, share experiences, and spark collaboration before sessions begin.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM Registration & Exhibition Open
Welcome! Come say hello and collect your name badge
Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM Day 2 Welcome & Housekeeping
Conference Emcee: Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Academy
8:40 AM - 9:25 AM Beyond Deficit: Language, Identity & Liberation in Neurodivergent Wellbeing
Mish Kumar Jonson, Principal Practitioner and Director; Niram EMDR and Trauma Counselling
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM Beyond People-Pleasing: Communication, Connection, Conflict, and Repair in Neurodivergent Relationships
Kai Schweizer, University Of Western Australia | The Kids Research Institute Australia
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Morning Tea in Exhibition
10:25 AM - 10:45 AM Poster Display
Bring your morning tea to the Poster Displays to meet with the authors and discuss their work.
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
11:20 AM - 11:50 AM
11:55 AM - 12:25 PM
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Puppy Therapy
Two Hours of Pure Joy
12:25 PM - 1:25 PM
Lunch in the Exhibition
Understanding the Neurodivergent Self
Virtual Only
1:25 PM - 2:25 PM Pre-Recorded Sessions
Ruth Minkov, Mindkit | Stephanie Robertson, Sgr Occupational Therapy | Patrick Casale, All Things Private Practice & Resilient Mind Counselling
2:25 PM - 2:50 PM
Afternoon Tea With Exhibitors
Conference Closing Keynotes
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM It's Not Us, It's the System: Redesigning Education for Neurodivergent Belonging
Aaron Saint-James, University of NSW
4:00 PM - 4:10 PM Closing Celebration

loading