Introduction to Neurodiversity: Creative Industries

Introduction to Neurodiversity: Creative Industries

  • ALL AGES

This session is an accessible entry point to information about neurodiversity. You'll leave with tangible knowledge & actionable take-aways.

By Laura Sheedy

Date and time

Thu, 15 May 2025 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM AEST.

Location

CY Venue

35 Johnston Street #Unit 2 Collingwood, VIC 3066 Australia

Refund Policy

No Refunds

Agenda

6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

Presentation: Powerpoint

Laura Sheedy

I will be on a low stage and talking through a microphone. The presentation slides will be projected on to a screen at the back of the stage. The screen can be seen from all points in the room. There...

6:45 PM - 7:00 PM

Q & A

Audience

I welcome questions throughout the session and there will also be a designated 15 mins Q&A time at the end.

7:15 PM - 9:00 PM

Social Drinks (food available)

Glou Wine Bar

Following the session, please join for a social catch-up around the corner at Glou - 310 Smith St, Collingwood. Glou is a sustainability focused wine bar & bottleshop. They work with some of Australi...

About this event

  • Event lasts 1 hour
  • ALL AGES
  • No venue parking

Join me for an engaging, info-packed introduction to neurodiversity: what it is and how we can engage neuro-inclusive practices for artists and organisational workplaces—and why it’s crucial in today’s creative landscape.

I'll address common misconceptions, explain where neurodivergent minds thrive and why, and explore how we can rethink the spaces we work and create in. Whether you’re a creative, industry leader, educator or student, you’ll gain a solid understanding of neurodiversity as well as strategies to support neuro-inclusion in your environment and inter-personal relationships.


The session will give you clear & tangible explanations of:

  • Neurobiology (ADHD-focused)
  • Physical & psychosocial impacts of neurodivergence
  • Sensory considerations in built & outdoor spaces
  • Neuro-inclusive language & communication
  • Strategies for creating neuro-inclusive events
  • Actionable neuro-inclusive adjustments to processes & environments
  • Relevant public/workplace regulations & creating reasonable adjustment plans


Note: This event will be relevant & informative for neurotypical and neurodivergent folks, and for folks who work outside the creative industries.

Ticketing: There are 3 ticket price options. All ticket income will contribute directly to venue hire cost. There is also an option to support additional no-charge tix for the event via a donation.

About me: I was diagnosed with ADHD 13 years ago and as a theatre-maker, director, producer and teaching artist I have a deep understanding of navigating neurodivergence across the performing arts, festivals and tertiary education. As a consultant, my aim is to share as much knowledge & awarness around neurodiversity as I can to help support artists and organisations. *A longer bio is on the event presenter info page.

Frequently asked questions

Financial Accessibility

The process of diagnosis for neurodivergent conditions & ongoing medical care, is incredibly expensive. For many folks in the arts this is financially difficult to navigate. Free tix are essential for events like this. If you can support this event by purchasing and/or donating a ticket, please do!

Is the CY Venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Wheelchair access is via the ramp from the main entrance, or the lift from the entrance next to PBS. *See additional accessibility information in the Presentation: Powerpoint section of the Agenda, below.

Is there accessible parking on-site at Collingwood Yards?

Collingwood Yards offers a single accessible parking bay, located in the entryway via 35C Johnston Street vehicle entrance.

Will this event be Auslan interpreted?

Unfortunately this event won't be translated into Auslan however all efforts will be made for future events in this series.

Is the lighting in the venue adjustable?

Yes, both the stage & venue lighting are adjustable for reduced sensory input.

Is the CY Venue climate controlled?

Yes, the space is climate-controlled.

Are there restrooms close to the CY Venue?

There are accessible & ambulant all gender bathrooms on the same level in the public corridor.

How do I get to Collingwood Yards by bus?

The nearest Bus stop is the corner of Johnston St and Smith St on Routes 200, 207 and Night Bus Route 966. The corner of Johnston St and Smith St is approximately a 300 meter, 5 minute walk to and from Collingwood Yards.

How do I get to Collingwood Yards by tram?

The nearest Tram stop is Stop 19 on Route 86 at the corner of Johnston St & Smith St. Stop 19 is approx. a 300 metre, 5 minute walk to and from Collingwood Yards. Route 86 is partly serviced by accessible Trams, however some Route 86 Trams have high floors and are not wheelchair accessible.

How do I get to Collingwood Yards by train?

The nearest Station is Victoria Park.Victoria Park Station is approximately a 700 metre, 10 minute walk to and from Collingwood Yards. Victoria Park Station is elevated and access to the platforms is either via a ramp or lift. Victoria Park is on the Hurstbridge and Mernda Lines.

Is Collingwood Yards bike-friendly?

Yes. A bike path runs along Wellington St, near the eastern boundary of Collingwood Yards Bike racks are located in the lower courtyard area, and near the Perry Street Lift. Please make sure you secure your bike.

Where Can I Park?

There are numerous secure and street parking options in the area. Two-hour free parking is available on Johnston Street (north of the precinct). Four-hour free parking is available on Perry Street at the south side of the precinct. All day paid parking options are available on Wellington Street.

Where is the CY Venue located in Collingwood Yards?

Upper Ground level, Johnston Street Building, Collingwood Yards Precinct

Tags

Organised by

Laura Sheedy
$0 – $20