Autism advocacy redefines inclusion
2 April 2026
A vibrant showcase of organisations dedicated to autism awareness and advocacy has been held at Parliament House.
The event brought together groups operating across the state, each offering a unique perspective on how society can better understand and embrace individuals with autism.
Among the participants was Different Journeys, a proactive organisation known for its community and connection approach to supporting Victorians with autism and their families.
At the centre of their message was a call to rethink what inclusion truly means. Inclusion, they emphasised, is not a one-size-fits-all concept.
‘Inclusivity for autism looks different for everybody,’ Different Journeys CEO Mel Spencer said.
For some, inclusion means having access to quiet spaces, places where they can think clearly without the sensory overload of a bustling café, for instance. For others, inclusion is the freedom to seek sensory stimulation.
‘Inclusion is all of those sensory-seeking things,’ Ms Spencer said, emphasising the importance of flexibility and understanding.
Providing services to regional Victoria is also something that Different Journeys focus on. In Bendigo, the organisation runs a variety of events tailored to different needs within the autistic community.
Carer support groups offer a warm, informal environment where families can connect, share experiences and gather practical insights.
Bendigo region coordinator Leah Thomas said these are ‘gold nuggets of information’. The gatherings help carers feel less isolated and more empowered as they navigate the complexities of supporting neurodivergent loved ones.
‘It's a really safe environment to come along to these events, be yourself and meet some people that are travelling just the same journey as you and find your tribe,’ Ms Thomas said.
Amaze, Yellow Ladybugs, Autism Valued, and the I CAN Network were among the organisations joining Different Journeys for the showcase.
The exhibition served as a powerful reminder that inclusion is not about forcing people into predefined standards. Rather, it’s about creating environments where everyone can attend, engage and belong in their own way.
For the organisations involved, the event was an opportunity to amplify this message and to show that meaningful change often begins with simple, thoughtful adjustments.
Their presence made one thing clear - when we broaden our understanding of autism and listen to the voices of autistic people and their families, we move closer to a society where everyone’s journey is valued.