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.
Agenda items highlighted in:
- Blue will be available in person and online via OnAIR.
- Orange will be available in person only.

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Monday, August 11, 2025

	Prince & Virtual via OnAIR	Jacaranda - In Person Only	Monarch - In Person Only	Virtual via 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!
	Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM	Conferenece Welcome, Housekeeping and Lived Experience Acknowledgement Chair: Sonny Jane
8:50 AM - 9:00 AM	Chair's Welcome: The Paradigm Shift Sonny Jane, Advocate, Author, Speaker
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM	Untypical & Unaccepted - Why Depression and Autism May Co-Occur Peter Wharmby, Author, Pete Wharmby Neurodiversity
10:05 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote by Angus Copelin - Walters Angus Copelin-Walters, Founder, Croc Candy
10:25 AM - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea With Exhibitors
	Workshop 1 In Person Only	Workshop 2 In Person Only	Workshop 3 In Person Only	Virtual via OnAIR only Chair: Dr Joey Lawrence
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM	Self-Compassion: A Strength-Based Approach to Mental Health in Autistic Adults Dr Ru Ying Cai & Dr Chris Edwards - Aspect	Neurodivergence: Understanding Self and One’s Intersectionality Through the Monotropic Lens - Building Supports for Mental Fitness A/Professor Wenn Lawson - Curtin Autism Research Group	Recognition Over Resilience: Reframing Mental Health Support for Neurodivergent Families Ms Joanne Hatchard - Better Being Me	Mental Health and Autism – Accessing Services: A Personal Perspective Yenn Purkis - Disability Leadership Institute
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM	Workshop 1 Continued	Workshop 2 Continued	Workshop 3 Continued	Destigmatising Dissociation and Multiplicity for Neurodivergent People Stephanie Robertson - SGR Occupational Therapy
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM	Lunch with Exhibitors
	Understanding and Supporting Children and Adolescents Chair: Kathleen Davey	Intersectionality, Co-occurring Conditions, and Mental Health in Neurodivergent Individuals. Chair:	Addressing Sanism, Neuronormativity, & Stigma in Mental Health Chair:
1:00 PM - 1:20 PM	Non-Traditional Evidence Based Therapeutic Approached with Neurodivergent Individuals Sarah Gurrin & Kelly Bettridge - Neurokind Insights	Gender Aligning Voice Training Jenny Matthews – Bayside Voice Centre	Shifting Systems: Neurodivergent Leadership in Australian Disability Policy and Practice Alexandra Bignell - Autism Self Advocacy Network Australia And New Zealand
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM	My Therapy House – Creating a Space Where Neurodivergent Children and Families Truly Belong Dana Baltutis & Maria Radimissis - My Therapy House	The Living Experience of Neurocomplexity, Intersectionality and Indigeneity; Accessing and Observing Specialist Mental Health Services Vanilla Martin - Te What Ora Specialist Mental Health Service Waitaha	Reframing Reflection: How Lived Experience-Led Supervision Shapes Neuro-Affirming Practice Renai Buchanan - Renai Buchanan
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM	Understanding and Supporting Children and Adolescents with FASD: Practical Strategies for Optimising Wellbeing Vanessa Spiller - Jumpstart Psychology & Robyn Smith - NOFASD Australia	“Which Part of Me is Safe with you?” Stories of Safety From Trans Neurodiverse Folk Samson Dunlevie – Samson Dunlevie	Identity and Community: The Key to Neurodivergent Wellbeing Yael Clark – Loapac Australia
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM	Supporting the Supporters: The OT Role in Maternal Wellbeing and Neurodivergent Child Outcomes Megan Doherty - Eli's Place Allied Health	Neurodivergence Across Cultures: Recognising barriers, biases and building inclusive support Systems Khadija Gbla Khadija Gbla Cultural Consultancy	Surviving the System, Honouring the Self: A Neurodivergent Journey. Tanya Carroll - Plus AusDoCC
2:35 PM - 3:00 PM	Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors
	Afternoon Keynotes Chair: Sonny Jane
3:05 PM - 4:05 PM	Keynote Panel: Addressing Stigma Moderator: Monique Mitchelson- Clinical Psychologist, Neurodivergent Woman Podcast Panellists: Bianca McIntyre-Lived Experience Educator, Bianca McIntyre Associate Professor Wenn Lawson- Senior Researcher, Curtin Autism Research Group Bianca Buliga - Artist Photographer And Mental Health Advocate, Bianca Joanna Photography
4:10 PM - 4:40 PM	Beyond the Brain: How Neurodiversity Shapes the Whole Body Kartini Clarke, CEO, Young Neurodiversity Champions
4:40 PM - 4:45 PM	Day One Closing
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM	Networking Event - Sponsored by: National Mental Health Consumer Alliance You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors at the conference venue. 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 & Virtual via OnAIR	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!
	Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM	Conferenece Welcome, Housekeeping and Lived Experience Acknowledgement Chair: Sonny Jane
8:50 AM - 9:00 AM	Chair's Welcome: The Paradigm Shift Sonny Jane, Advocate, Author, Speaker
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM	Untypical & Unaccepted - Why Depression and Autism May Co-Occur Peter Wharmby, Author, Pete Wharmby Neurodiversity
10:05 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote by Angus Copelin - Walters Angus Copelin-Walters, Founder, Croc Candy
10:25 AM - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea With Exhibitors
	Workshop 1 In Person Only	Workshop 2 In Person Only
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM	Self-Compassion: A Strength-Based Approach to Mental Health in Autistic Adults Dr Ru Ying Cai & Dr Chris Edwards - Aspect	Neurodivergence: Understanding Self and One’s Intersectionality Through the Monotropic Lens - Building Supports for Mental Fitness A/Professor Wenn Lawson - Curtin Autism Research Group
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM	Workshop 1 Continued	Workshop 2 Continued
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM	Lunch with Exhibitors
	Understanding and Supporting Children and Adolescents Chair: Kathleen Davey	Intersectionality, Co-occurring Conditions, and Mental Health in Neurodivergent Individuals. Chair:
1:00 PM - 1:20 PM	Non-Traditional Evidence Based Therapeutic Approached with Neurodivergent Individuals Sarah Gurrin & Kelly Bettridge - Neurokind Insights	Gender Aligning Voice Training Jenny Matthews – Bayside Voice Centre
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM	My Therapy House – Creating a Space Where Neurodivergent Children and Families Truly Belong Dana Baltutis & Maria Radimissis - My Therapy House	The Living Experience of Neurocomplexity, Intersectionality and Indigeneity; Accessing and Observing Specialist Mental Health Services Vanilla Martin - Te What Ora Specialist Mental Health Service Waitaha
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM	Understanding and Supporting Children and Adolescents with FASD: Practical Strategies for Optimising Wellbeing Vanessa Spiller - Jumpstart Psychology & Robyn Smith - NOFASD Australia	“Which Part of Me is Safe with you?” Stories of Safety From Trans Neurodiverse Folk Samson Dunlevie – Samson Dunlevie
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM	Supporting the Supporters: The OT Role in Maternal Wellbeing and Neurodivergent Child Outcomes Megan Doherty - Eli's Place Allied Health	Neurodivergence Across Cultures: Recognising barriers, biases and building inclusive support Systems Khadija Gbla Khadija Gbla Cultural Consultancy
2:35 PM - 3:00 PM	Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors
	Afternoon Keynotes Chair: Sonny Jane
3:05 PM - 4:05 PM	Keynote Panel: Addressing Stigma Moderator: Monique Mitchelson- Clinical Psychologist, Neurodivergent Woman Podcast Panellists: Bianca McIntyre-Lived Experience Educator, Bianca McIntyre Associate Professor Wenn Lawson- Senior Researcher, Curtin Autism Research Group Bianca Buliga - Artist Photographer And Mental Health Advocate, Bianca Joanna Photography
4:10 PM - 4:40 PM	Beyond the Brain: How Neurodiversity Shapes the Whole Body Kartini Clarke, CEO, Young Neurodiversity Champions
4:40 PM - 4:45 PM	Day One Closing
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM	Networking Event - Sponsored by: National Mental Health Consumer Alliance You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors at the conference venue. 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 Only	Virtual via 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!
	Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM	Conferenece Welcome, Housekeeping and Lived Experience Acknowledgement Chair: Sonny Jane
8:50 AM - 9:00 AM	Chair's Welcome: The Paradigm Shift Sonny Jane, Advocate, Author, Speaker
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM	Untypical & Unaccepted - Why Depression and Autism May Co-Occur Peter Wharmby, Author, Pete Wharmby Neurodiversity
10:05 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote by Angus Copelin - Walters Angus Copelin-Walters, Founder, Croc Candy
10:25 AM - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea With Exhibitors
	Workshop 3 In Person Only	Virtual via OnAIR only Chair: Dr Joey Lawrence
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM	Recognition Over Resilience: Reframing Mental Health Support for Neurodivergent Families Ms Joanne Hatchard - Better Being Me	Mental Health and Autism – Accessing Services: A Personal Perspective Yenn Purkis - Disability Leadership Institute
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM	Workshop 3 Continued	Destigmatising Dissociation and Multiplicity for Neurodivergent People Stephanie Robertson - SGR Occupational Therapy
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM	Lunch with Exhibitors
	Addressing Sanism, Neuronormativity, & Stigma in Mental Health Chair:
1:00 PM - 1:20 PM	Shifting Systems: Neurodivergent Leadership in Australian Disability Policy and Practice Alexandra Bignell - Autism Self Advocacy Network Australia And New Zealand
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM	Reframing Reflection: How Lived Experience-Led Supervision Shapes Neuro-Affirming Practice Renai Buchanan - Renai Buchanan
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM	Identity and Community: The Key to Neurodivergent Wellbeing Yael Clark – Loapac Australia
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM	Surviving the System, Honouring the Self: A Neurodivergent Journey. Tanya Carroll - Plus AusDoCC
2:35 PM - 3:00 PM	Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors
	Afternoon Keynotes Chair: Sonny Jane
3:05 PM - 4:05 PM	Keynote Panel: Addressing Stigma Moderator: Monique Mitchelson- Clinical Psychologist, Neurodivergent Woman Podcast Panellists: Bianca McIntyre-Lived Experience Educator, Bianca McIntyre Associate Professor Wenn Lawson- Senior Researcher, Curtin Autism Research Group Bianca Buliga - Artist Photographer And Mental Health Advocate, Bianca Joanna Photography
4:10 PM - 4:40 PM	Beyond the Brain: How Neurodiversity Shapes the Whole Body Kartini Clarke, CEO, Young Neurodiversity Champions
4:40 PM - 4:45 PM	Day One Closing
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM	Networking Event - Sponsored by: National Mental Health Consumer Alliance You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors at the conference venue. 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 & Virtual via 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!
	Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM	Conferenece Welcome, Housekeeping and Lived Experience Acknowledgement Chair: Sonny Jane
8:50 AM - 9:00 AM	Chair's Welcome: The Paradigm Shift Sonny Jane, Advocate, Author, Speaker
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM	Untypical & Unaccepted - Why Depression and Autism May Co-Occur Peter Wharmby, Author, Pete Wharmby Neurodiversity
10:05 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote by Angus Copelin - Walters Angus Copelin-Walters, Founder, Croc Candy
10:25 AM - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea With Exhibitors
	Workshop 1 In Person Only
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM	Self-Compassion: A Strength-Based Approach to Mental Health in Autistic Adults Dr Ru Ying Cai & Dr Chris Edwards - Aspect
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM	Workshop 1 Continued
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM	Lunch with Exhibitors
	Understanding and Supporting Children and Adolescents Chair: Kathleen Davey
1:00 PM - 1:20 PM	Non-Traditional Evidence Based Therapeutic Approached with Neurodivergent Individuals Sarah Gurrin & Kelly Bettridge - Neurokind Insights
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM	My Therapy House – Creating a Space Where Neurodivergent Children and Families Truly Belong Dana Baltutis & Maria Radimissis - My Therapy House
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM	Understanding and Supporting Children and Adolescents with FASD: Practical Strategies for Optimising Wellbeing Vanessa Spiller - Jumpstart Psychology & Robyn Smith - NOFASD Australia
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM	Supporting the Supporters: The OT Role in Maternal Wellbeing and Neurodivergent Child Outcomes Megan Doherty - Eli's Place Allied Health
2:35 PM - 3:00 PM	Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors
	Afternoon Keynotes Chair: Sonny Jane
3:05 PM - 4:05 PM	Keynote Panel: Addressing Stigma Moderator: Monique Mitchelson- Clinical Psychologist, Neurodivergent Woman Podcast Panellists: Bianca McIntyre-Lived Experience Educator, Bianca McIntyre Associate Professor Wenn Lawson- Senior Researcher, Curtin Autism Research Group Bianca Buliga - Artist Photographer And Mental Health Advocate, Bianca Joanna Photography
4:10 PM - 4:40 PM	Beyond the Brain: How Neurodiversity Shapes the Whole Body Kartini Clarke, CEO, Young Neurodiversity Champions
4:40 PM - 4:45 PM	Day One Closing
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM	Networking Event - Sponsored by: National Mental Health Consumer Alliance You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors at the conference venue. 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!
	Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM	Conferenece Welcome, Housekeeping and Lived Experience Acknowledgement Chair: Sonny Jane
8:50 AM - 9:00 AM	Chair's Welcome: The Paradigm Shift Sonny Jane, Advocate, Author, Speaker
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM	Untypical & Unaccepted - Why Depression and Autism May Co-Occur Peter Wharmby, Author, Pete Wharmby Neurodiversity
10:05 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote by Angus Copelin - Walters Angus Copelin-Walters, Founder, Croc Candy
10:25 AM - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea With Exhibitors
	Workshop 2 In Person Only
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM	Neurodivergence: Understanding Self and One’s Intersectionality Through the Monotropic Lens - Building Supports for Mental Fitness A/Professor Wenn Lawson - Curtin Autism Research Group
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM	Workshop 2 Continued
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM	Lunch with Exhibitors
	Intersectionality, Co-occurring Conditions, and Mental Health in Neurodivergent Individuals. Chair:
1:00 PM - 1:20 PM	Gender Aligning Voice Training Jenny Matthews – Bayside Voice Centre
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM	The Living Experience of Neurocomplexity, Intersectionality and Indigeneity; Accessing and Observing Specialist Mental Health Services Vanilla Martin - Te What Ora Specialist Mental Health Service Waitaha
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM	“Which Part of Me is Safe with you?” Stories of Safety From Trans Neurodiverse Folk Samson Dunlevie – Samson Dunlevie
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM	Neurodivergence Across Cultures: Recognising barriers, biases and building inclusive support Systems Khadija Gbla Khadija Gbla Cultural Consultancy
2:35 PM - 3:00 PM	Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors
	Afternoon Keynotes Chair: Sonny Jane
3:05 PM - 4:05 PM	Keynote Panel: Addressing Stigma Moderator: Monique Mitchelson- Clinical Psychologist, Neurodivergent Woman Podcast Panellists: Bianca McIntyre-Lived Experience Educator, Bianca McIntyre Associate Professor Wenn Lawson- Senior Researcher, Curtin Autism Research Group Bianca Buliga - Artist Photographer And Mental Health Advocate, Bianca Joanna Photography
4:10 PM - 4:40 PM	Beyond the Brain: How Neurodiversity Shapes the Whole Body Kartini Clarke, CEO, Young Neurodiversity Champions
4:40 PM - 4:45 PM	Day One Closing
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM	Networking Event - Sponsored by: National Mental Health Consumer Alliance You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors at the conference venue. 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 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!
	Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM	Conferenece Welcome, Housekeeping and Lived Experience Acknowledgement Chair: Sonny Jane
8:50 AM - 9:00 AM	Chair's Welcome: The Paradigm Shift Sonny Jane, Advocate, Author, Speaker
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM	Untypical & Unaccepted - Why Depression and Autism May Co-Occur Peter Wharmby, Author, Pete Wharmby Neurodiversity
10:05 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote by Angus Copelin - Walters Angus Copelin-Walters, Founder, Croc Candy
10:25 AM - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea With Exhibitors
	Workshop 3 In Person Only
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM	Recognition Over Resilience: Reframing Mental Health Support for Neurodivergent Families Ms Joanne Hatchard - Better Being Me
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM	Workshop 3 Continued
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM	Lunch with Exhibitors
	Addressing Sanism, Neuronormativity, & Stigma in Mental Health Chair:
1:00 PM - 1:20 PM	Shifting Systems: Neurodivergent Leadership in Australian Disability Policy and Practice Alexandra Bignell - Autism Self Advocacy Network Australia And New Zealand
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM	Reframing Reflection: How Lived Experience-Led Supervision Shapes Neuro-Affirming Practice Renai Buchanan - Renai Buchanan
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM	Identity and Community: The Key to Neurodivergent Wellbeing Yael Clark – Loapac Australia
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM	Surviving the System, Honouring the Self: A Neurodivergent Journey. Tanya Carroll - Plus AusDoCC
2:35 PM - 3:00 PM	Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors
	Afternoon Keynotes Chair: Sonny Jane
3:05 PM - 4:05 PM	Keynote Panel: Addressing Stigma Moderator: Monique Mitchelson- Clinical Psychologist, Neurodivergent Woman Podcast Panellists: Bianca McIntyre-Lived Experience Educator, Bianca McIntyre Associate Professor Wenn Lawson- Senior Researcher, Curtin Autism Research Group Bianca Buliga - Artist Photographer And Mental Health Advocate, Bianca Joanna Photography
4:10 PM - 4:40 PM	Beyond the Brain: How Neurodiversity Shapes the Whole Body Kartini Clarke, CEO, Young Neurodiversity Champions
4:40 PM - 4:45 PM	Day One Closing
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM	Networking Event - Sponsored by: National Mental Health Consumer Alliance You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors at the conference venue. 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.

	Virtual via 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!
	Conference Opening Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome to Country
8:40 AM - 8:50 AM	Conferenece Welcome, Housekeeping and Lived Experience Acknowledgement Chair: Sonny Jane
8:50 AM - 9:00 AM	Chair's Welcome: The Paradigm Shift Sonny Jane, Advocate, Author, Speaker
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM	Untypical & Unaccepted - Why Depression and Autism May Co-Occur Peter Wharmby, Author, Pete Wharmby Neurodiversity
10:05 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote by Angus Copelin - Walters Angus Copelin-Walters, Founder, Croc Candy
10:25 AM - 11:00 AM	Morning Tea With Exhibitors
	Virtual via OnAIR only Chair: Dr Joey Lawrence
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM	Mental Health and Autism – Accessing Services: A Personal Perspective Yenn Purkis - Disability Leadership Institute
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM	Destigmatising Dissociation and Multiplicity for Neurodivergent People Stephanie Robertson - SGR Occupational Therapy
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM	Lunch with Exhibitors

1:00 PM - 1:20 PM
1:25 PM - 1:45 PM
1:50 PM - 2:10 PM
2:15 PM - 2:35 PM
2:35 PM - 3:00 PM	Afternoon Tea with Exhibitors
	Afternoon Keynotes Chair: Sonny Jane
3:05 PM - 4:05 PM	Keynote Panel: Addressing Stigma Moderator: Monique Mitchelson- Clinical Psychologist, Neurodivergent Woman Podcast Panellists: Bianca McIntyre-Lived Experience Educator, Bianca McIntyre Associate Professor Wenn Lawson- Senior Researcher, Curtin Autism Research Group Bianca Buliga - Artist Photographer And Mental Health Advocate, Bianca Joanna Photography
4:10 PM - 4:40 PM	Beyond the Brain: How Neurodiversity Shapes the Whole Body Kartini Clarke, CEO, Young Neurodiversity Champions
4:40 PM - 4:45 PM	Day One Closing
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM	Networking Event - Sponsored by: National Mental Health Consumer Alliance You’re invited to join us for our conference evening event, held among the exhibitors at the conference venue. 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, August 12, 2025

	Prince & Virtual via OnAIR	Jacaranda - In Person Only	Monarch - In Person Only
6:45 AM - 7:45 AM	Trauma-Informed Yoga Class Stretch and unwind when you join Mollie Cox from Jala Yoga for a guided Yoga session. These sessions promise to be a serene escape before the hustle of a big day of presentations and learning. If you’re a yoga enthusiast or a beginner, everyone attending the conference is welcome to attend.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM	Registration Open Welcome back! The conference desk is open again if you need to pick up your name badge or have a question.
	Morning Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome & Housekeeping Chair: Sonny Jane
8:40 AM - 9:10 AM	Keynote by Dr Rebecca Flower and Dr Rachel Jellett Rebecca Flower, Senior Lecturer \| Researcher, Therapy \| La Trobe University and Rachel Jellett, Lecturer, Swinburne University Of Technology
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM	Addressing the Autism Mental Health Crisis Through Research and Innovation Dr Chris Edwards, Research Fellow, Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia)
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote to be Announced.
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM	Morning Tea
	Promoting Positive Mental Health in Neurodivergent Women and Girls Chair:	Reframing Neurodivergent Experience: Language, Lived Reality & Diagnostic Culture Chair:	Advancing Inclusion in Employment, Healthcare and Education Chair:
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM	Beyond-the-Mask: Peer-Led Strategies to Support the Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing of AuDHD Teenage Girls Katie Koullas – Yellow Ladybugs	Turning Pain Into Purpose: OCD and Men’s Mental Health Simon Rinne - Mindful Men	Creating a Culture of Belonging Sarah Eagle – Joy Diving Australia
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM	Hormonal Sensitivity in Neurodivergent Women: Navigating Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Mental Health Caitlin Hooper - Unmasked Naturopath	Welcome to My Brain: Creating a Language for Conversations About Neurodivergence Madelaine Armstrong Willcocks & Justine Munro - Neurodiversity In Education Project \| Kartini Clarke - YNC	Co-Designing Self-Care Resources with Neurodivergent Students in Higher Education: Adopting a Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach Dr Radhika Tanksale, Annabel Lee, David McAfee, Klaire Ren & Asher Sweet - University of Queensland
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM	Hiding or Thriving? Experiences and Coping Strategies of Women and Gender Diverse People With ADHD Dr Oli Meredith - Charles Sturt University	Autistic Eating Isn’t Broken: Why ARFID Diagnoses Need a Rethink Natasha Lane - Eating And Feeding	Neuro-Inclusive Workplace Feedback: The Curiosity over Judgement Approach Lizzie Somerfield – New Deal For Neurodiversity
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch with Poster Presentations (In Person Only)
	Addressing Sanism, Neuronormativity, and Stigma in Mental Health Chair:	Neurodivergent Adults: Enhancing Mental Health and Wellbeing Across the Lifespan Chair:	Embedding Neurodivergent-Affirming Practices Across Sectors Chair: Kathleen Davey
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM	Beyond the Diagnosis: Culturally Responsive ADHD Assessment and Therapy Anushka Phal - Umeed Psychology	Parenting with ADHD: From Chaos...to Calm(ish!) Dr Claire Milligan - Maple Leaf Psychology & Allied Health	Paramedic Practice and Neurodivergent-affirming Care: A Systematic Review Charlton Quitoriano - Monash University
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM	National Mental Health Consumer Alliance's National Human Rights Survey Priscilla Brice – NMHCA	The Duality of Neurodivergent Parenting: Embracing Chaos and Connection Chelsea Luker - Connect Us Psychology	Co-Development of an Autism Suicide Prevention Resource Hub for Australian Mental Health Practitioners Dr Claire Brown - Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM	ADHD in Aotearoa New Zealand – Challenges, Support, and Neurodivergent Voices Associate Professor Byron Rangiwai - Ngā Wai A Te Tūī: Māori And Indigenous Research Centre	Exciting Presentation to be Announced	Bridging the Gap: Collaborative Care for Neurodivergent Young People and Their Families Dr Siobhan Lamb - Developmental Paediatrics
2:40 PM - 3:10 PM	Afternoon Tea
	Closing Keynotes
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM	Keynote To Be Announced
3:50 PM - 4:20 PM	Reimagining the Classroom: The New Way Forward in Supporting Diverse Learners Dr Sandhya Menon, Director, Onwards and Upwards Psychology
4:20 PM - 4:30 PM	Conference Closing & Prize Draw

	Prince & Virtual via OnAIR	Jacaranda - In Person Only
6:45 AM - 7:45 AM	Trauma-Informed Yoga Class Stretch and unwind when you join Mollie Cox from Jala Yoga for a guided Yoga session. These sessions promise to be a serene escape before the hustle of a big day of presentations and learning. If you’re a yoga enthusiast or a beginner, everyone attending the conference is welcome to attend.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM	Registration Open Welcome back! The conference desk is open again if you need to pick up your name badge or have a question.
	Morning Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome & Housekeeping Chair: Sonny Jane
8:40 AM - 9:10 AM	Keynote by Dr Rebecca Flower and Dr Rachel Jellett Rebecca Flower, Senior Lecturer \| Researcher, Therapy \| La Trobe University and Rachel Jellett, Lecturer, Swinburne University Of Technology
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM	Addressing the Autism Mental Health Crisis Through Research and Innovation Dr Chris Edwards, Research Fellow, Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia)
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote to be Announced.
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM	Morning Tea
	Promoting Positive Mental Health in Neurodivergent Women and Girls Chair:	Reframing Neurodivergent Experience: Language, Lived Reality & Diagnostic Culture Chair:
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM	Beyond-the-Mask: Peer-Led Strategies to Support the Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing of AuDHD Teenage Girls Katie Koullas – Yellow Ladybugs	Turning Pain Into Purpose: OCD and Men’s Mental Health Simon Rinne - Mindful Men
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM	Hormonal Sensitivity in Neurodivergent Women: Navigating Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Mental Health Caitlin Hooper - Unmasked Naturopath	Welcome to My Brain: Creating a Language for Conversations About Neurodivergence Madelaine Armstrong Willcocks & Justine Munro - Neurodiversity In Education Project \| Kartini Clarke - YNC
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM	Hiding or Thriving? Experiences and Coping Strategies of Women and Gender Diverse People With ADHD Dr Oli Meredith - Charles Sturt University	Autistic Eating Isn’t Broken: Why ARFID Diagnoses Need a Rethink Natasha Lane - Eating And Feeding
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch with Poster Presentations (In Person Only)
	Addressing Sanism, Neuronormativity, and Stigma in Mental Health Chair:	Neurodivergent Adults: Enhancing Mental Health and Wellbeing Across the Lifespan Chair:
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM	Beyond the Diagnosis: Culturally Responsive ADHD Assessment and Therapy Anushka Phal - Umeed Psychology	Parenting with ADHD: From Chaos...to Calm(ish!) Dr Claire Milligan - Maple Leaf Psychology & Allied Health
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM	National Mental Health Consumer Alliance's National Human Rights Survey Priscilla Brice – NMHCA	The Duality of Neurodivergent Parenting: Embracing Chaos and Connection Chelsea Luker - Connect Us Psychology
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM	ADHD in Aotearoa New Zealand – Challenges, Support, and Neurodivergent Voices Associate Professor Byron Rangiwai - Ngā Wai A Te Tūī: Māori And Indigenous Research Centre	Exciting Presentation to be Announced
2:40 PM - 3:10 PM	Afternoon Tea
	Closing Keynotes
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM	Keynote To Be Announced
3:50 PM - 4:20 PM	Reimagining the Classroom: The New Way Forward in Supporting Diverse Learners Dr Sandhya Menon, Director, Onwards and Upwards Psychology
4:20 PM - 4:30 PM	Conference Closing & Prize Draw

	Monarch - In Person Only
6:45 AM - 7:45 AM	Trauma-Informed Yoga Class Stretch and unwind when you join Mollie Cox from Jala Yoga for a guided Yoga session. These sessions promise to be a serene escape before the hustle of a big day of presentations and learning. If you’re a yoga enthusiast or a beginner, everyone attending the conference is welcome to attend.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM	Registration Open Welcome back! The conference desk is open again if you need to pick up your name badge or have a question.
	Morning Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome & Housekeeping Chair: Sonny Jane
8:40 AM - 9:10 AM	Keynote by Dr Rebecca Flower and Dr Rachel Jellett Rebecca Flower, Senior Lecturer \| Researcher, Therapy \| La Trobe University and Rachel Jellett, Lecturer, Swinburne University Of Technology
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM	Addressing the Autism Mental Health Crisis Through Research and Innovation Dr Chris Edwards, Research Fellow, Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia)
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote to be Announced.
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM	Morning Tea
	Advancing Inclusion in Employment, Healthcare and Education Chair:
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM	Creating a Culture of Belonging Sarah Eagle – Joy Diving Australia
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM	Co-Designing Self-Care Resources with Neurodivergent Students in Higher Education: Adopting a Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach Dr Radhika Tanksale, Annabel Lee, David McAfee, Klaire Ren & Asher Sweet - University of Queensland
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM	Neuro-Inclusive Workplace Feedback: The Curiosity over Judgement Approach Lizzie Somerfield – New Deal For Neurodiversity
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch with Poster Presentations (In Person Only)
	Embedding Neurodivergent-Affirming Practices Across Sectors Chair: Kathleen Davey
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM	Paramedic Practice and Neurodivergent-affirming Care: A Systematic Review Charlton Quitoriano - Monash University
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM	Co-Development of an Autism Suicide Prevention Resource Hub for Australian Mental Health Practitioners Dr Claire Brown - Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM	Bridging the Gap: Collaborative Care for Neurodivergent Young People and Their Families Dr Siobhan Lamb - Developmental Paediatrics
2:40 PM - 3:10 PM	Afternoon Tea
	Closing Keynotes
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM	Keynote To Be Announced
3:50 PM - 4:20 PM	Reimagining the Classroom: The New Way Forward in Supporting Diverse Learners Dr Sandhya Menon, Director, Onwards and Upwards Psychology
4:20 PM - 4:30 PM	Conference Closing & Prize Draw

	Prince & Virtual via OnAIR
6:45 AM - 7:45 AM	Trauma-Informed Yoga Class Stretch and unwind when you join Mollie Cox from Jala Yoga for a guided Yoga session. These sessions promise to be a serene escape before the hustle of a big day of presentations and learning. If you’re a yoga enthusiast or a beginner, everyone attending the conference is welcome to attend.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM	Registration Open Welcome back! The conference desk is open again if you need to pick up your name badge or have a question.
	Morning Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome & Housekeeping Chair: Sonny Jane
8:40 AM - 9:10 AM	Keynote by Dr Rebecca Flower and Dr Rachel Jellett Rebecca Flower, Senior Lecturer \| Researcher, Therapy \| La Trobe University and Rachel Jellett, Lecturer, Swinburne University Of Technology
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM	Addressing the Autism Mental Health Crisis Through Research and Innovation Dr Chris Edwards, Research Fellow, Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia)
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote to be Announced.
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM	Morning Tea
	Promoting Positive Mental Health in Neurodivergent Women and Girls Chair:
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM	Beyond-the-Mask: Peer-Led Strategies to Support the Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing of AuDHD Teenage Girls Katie Koullas – Yellow Ladybugs
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM	Hormonal Sensitivity in Neurodivergent Women: Navigating Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Mental Health Caitlin Hooper - Unmasked Naturopath
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM	Hiding or Thriving? Experiences and Coping Strategies of Women and Gender Diverse People With ADHD Dr Oli Meredith - Charles Sturt University
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch with Poster Presentations (In Person Only)
	Addressing Sanism, Neuronormativity, and Stigma in Mental Health Chair:
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM	Beyond the Diagnosis: Culturally Responsive ADHD Assessment and Therapy Anushka Phal - Umeed Psychology
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM	National Mental Health Consumer Alliance's National Human Rights Survey Priscilla Brice – NMHCA
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM	ADHD in Aotearoa New Zealand – Challenges, Support, and Neurodivergent Voices Associate Professor Byron Rangiwai - Ngā Wai A Te Tūī: Māori And Indigenous Research Centre
2:40 PM - 3:10 PM	Afternoon Tea
	Closing Keynotes
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM	Keynote To Be Announced
3:50 PM - 4:20 PM	Reimagining the Classroom: The New Way Forward in Supporting Diverse Learners Dr Sandhya Menon, Director, Onwards and Upwards Psychology
4:20 PM - 4:30 PM	Conference Closing & Prize Draw

	Jacaranda - In Person Only
6:45 AM - 7:45 AM	Trauma-Informed Yoga Class Stretch and unwind when you join Mollie Cox from Jala Yoga for a guided Yoga session. These sessions promise to be a serene escape before the hustle of a big day of presentations and learning. If you’re a yoga enthusiast or a beginner, everyone attending the conference is welcome to attend.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM	Registration Open Welcome back! The conference desk is open again if you need to pick up your name badge or have a question.
	Morning Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome & Housekeeping Chair: Sonny Jane
8:40 AM - 9:10 AM	Keynote by Dr Rebecca Flower and Dr Rachel Jellett Rebecca Flower, Senior Lecturer \| Researcher, Therapy \| La Trobe University and Rachel Jellett, Lecturer, Swinburne University Of Technology
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM	Addressing the Autism Mental Health Crisis Through Research and Innovation Dr Chris Edwards, Research Fellow, Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia)
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote to be Announced.
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM	Morning Tea
	Reframing Neurodivergent Experience: Language, Lived Reality & Diagnostic Culture Chair:
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM	Turning Pain Into Purpose: OCD and Men’s Mental Health Simon Rinne - Mindful Men
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM	Welcome to My Brain: Creating a Language for Conversations About Neurodivergence Madelaine Armstrong Willcocks & Justine Munro - Neurodiversity In Education Project \| Kartini Clarke - YNC
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM	Autistic Eating Isn’t Broken: Why ARFID Diagnoses Need a Rethink Natasha Lane - Eating And Feeding
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch with Poster Presentations (In Person Only)
	Neurodivergent Adults: Enhancing Mental Health and Wellbeing Across the Lifespan Chair:
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM	Parenting with ADHD: From Chaos...to Calm(ish!) Dr Claire Milligan - Maple Leaf Psychology & Allied Health
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM	The Duality of Neurodivergent Parenting: Embracing Chaos and Connection Chelsea Luker - Connect Us Psychology
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM	Exciting Presentation to be Announced
2:40 PM - 3:10 PM	Afternoon Tea
	Closing Keynotes
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM	Keynote To Be Announced
3:50 PM - 4:20 PM	Reimagining the Classroom: The New Way Forward in Supporting Diverse Learners Dr Sandhya Menon, Director, Onwards and Upwards Psychology
4:20 PM - 4:30 PM	Conference Closing & Prize Draw

	Monarch - In Person Only
6:45 AM - 7:45 AM	Trauma-Informed Yoga Class Stretch and unwind when you join Mollie Cox from Jala Yoga for a guided Yoga session. These sessions promise to be a serene escape before the hustle of a big day of presentations and learning. If you’re a yoga enthusiast or a beginner, everyone attending the conference is welcome to attend.
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM	Registration Open Welcome back! The conference desk is open again if you need to pick up your name badge or have a question.
	Morning Keynotes
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM	Welcome & Housekeeping Chair: Sonny Jane
8:40 AM - 9:10 AM	Keynote by Dr Rebecca Flower and Dr Rachel Jellett Rebecca Flower, Senior Lecturer \| Researcher, Therapy \| La Trobe University and Rachel Jellett, Lecturer, Swinburne University Of Technology
9:15 AM - 9:45 AM	Addressing the Autism Mental Health Crisis Through Research and Innovation Dr Chris Edwards, Research Fellow, Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia)
9:55 AM - 10:25 AM	Keynote to be Announced.
10:25 AM - 10:50 AM	Morning Tea
	Advancing Inclusion in Employment, Healthcare and Education Chair:
10:50 AM - 11:20 AM	Creating a Culture of Belonging Sarah Eagle – Joy Diving Australia
11:25 AM - 11:55 AM	Co-Designing Self-Care Resources with Neurodivergent Students in Higher Education: Adopting a Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach Dr Radhika Tanksale, Annabel Lee, David McAfee, Klaire Ren & Asher Sweet - University of Queensland
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM	Neuro-Inclusive Workplace Feedback: The Curiosity over Judgement Approach Lizzie Somerfield – New Deal For Neurodiversity
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM	Lunch with Poster Presentations (In Person Only)
	Embedding Neurodivergent-Affirming Practices Across Sectors Chair: Kathleen Davey
1:30 PM - 1:50 PM	Paramedic Practice and Neurodivergent-affirming Care: A Systematic Review Charlton Quitoriano - Monash University
1:55 PM - 2:15 PM	Co-Development of an Autism Suicide Prevention Resource Hub for Australian Mental Health Practitioners Dr Claire Brown - Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, La Trobe University
2:20 PM - 2:40 PM	Bridging the Gap: Collaborative Care for Neurodivergent Young People and Their Families Dr Siobhan Lamb - Developmental Paediatrics
2:40 PM - 3:10 PM	Afternoon Tea
	Closing Keynotes
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM	Keynote To Be Announced
3:50 PM - 4:20 PM	Reimagining the Classroom: The New Way Forward in Supporting Diverse Learners Dr Sandhya Menon, Director, Onwards and Upwards Psychology
4:20 PM - 4:30 PM	Conference Closing & Prize Draw