At La Trobe University, we value people who think differently, so it’s exciting to be involved in Neurodiversity Celebration Week in 2025.
Come visit our Neurodiversity Celebration Pop-Up in the Bundoora Library on Wednesday 19 March from 11-2 pm.
“Neurodiversity” is a term that acknowledges that everyone has different ways of thinking, processing information and communicating and that these are normal human variations. It’s beneficial for communities to have this variety of thinkers contributing to the ways we understand the world, building new perspectives and richness of knowledge.
“It’s not an illness and is in some ways as much an advantage as it can be a disadvantage in other ways.” – La Trobe neurodiversity network member
The phrase ‘nothing about us without us’ is a call for inclusion and for recognition: a call to ensure the voices and experiences of those affected by decisions shape those very decisions. It is a call that resonates through the work of disability and neurodiversity activists to this day. It is this same call which has shaped our approach to Neurodiversity Celebration Week at La Trobe.
For this Neurodiversity Celebration Week, members of the Neurodiversity Networks have shared in their own words: “In one sentence, what do you wish others knew about your neurodivergence?” You will see some of their responses highlighted throughout this article.
“Don’t make assumptions – take the time to really listen and try to understand” – La Trobe Neurodiversity network member
Approximately 15-25% of the population may have neurotypes that differ from the typical (or expected) way of thinking, which we refer to as neurodivergent. You might have heard of some of the neurodivergent neurotypes; they include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette syndrome, dyscalculia and developmental language disorder.
“My ADHD brain helps me think outside the box, which is why I became an academic.” – La Trobe Neurodiversity Network member
The diagram above explains that “neurodivergent” isn’t a strict medical label but refers to various differences among people. While each type of neurodivergence is unique, they often share common traits. For example, many neurodivergent individuals, no matter their specific type, face challenges with something known as executive dysfunction.
“I wish others knew that my executive dysfunction affects EVERYTHING – work, hobbies, study, texting, catching up with friends, eating, enjoying media, even sleeping – so it’s not personal if I have trouble doing something!” – La Trobe Neurodiversity Networks member
People who are neurodivergent sometimes find it hard to navigate systems and institutions because they are not always designed to consider the needs of all neurotypes. In recent years, there has been an effort by many organisations and institutions to start to remove the barriers for neurodivergent people to succeed, but we have a long way to go. Some examples of things that remove barriers to success include time accommodations, training and awareness raising and assistive technology availability.
“It doesn’t mean I’m not capable, it just means I have to try harder, and it can produce better results than someone who isn’t neurodivergent.” – La Trobe Neurodiversity Network member
When people are given the accommodations they need, spaces can be created where everyone is welcomed, included and respected; where everyone, regardless of neurotype, are able to thrive.
“I am good at solving problems.” – La Trobe Neurodiversity Network member
Neuroinclusion begins by forming networks, groups, and communities that welcome all neurotypes and encourage people to connect. At La Trobe University, we’re excited to be developing these networks. Are you looking for your neurodiverse community? See below to fin groups and networks at La Trobe!
Neurodiversity groups and networks at La Trobe
- The Neurodiversity Networks – social and professional community for Neurominority cohorts at La Trobe
- CANDID – a peer-led group that supports activities like shared study time (called Shut Up And Study). Open to students with chronic pain, disabilities, neurodivergence and their allies and friends.
- The Neurodiversity Project – an opportunity for anyone of any neurotype to get involved in building a more inclusive university, community and society
Disability Inclusion at La Trobe
Neuroinclusion isn’t a destination: it’s a journey. That’s why La Trobe is proud to share our Universal Design for Inclusion Action Plan. This plan cements our commitment to be truly neuroinclusive in our culture, spaces, teaching, learning, and research – both now and into the future.
Support and accommodations for students (including neurominority students)
- Wellbeing Services – a range of different supports for your wellbeing
- Safer Community – a free, confidential support service for La Trobe staff and students to disclose or report concerning, threatening, inappropriate or uncomfortable behaviour.