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ASAN AUNZ is recruiting! Opportunities for Autist ASAN AUNZ is recruiting! Opportunities for Autistic-led groups, advisory groups and Auslan, Easy Read, and translation services will open shortly. 👉 Find out more here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/opportunities-with-asan-aunz/
Leadership update at ASAN AUNZ 🌱 We’re excited to Leadership update at ASAN AUNZ 🌱 We’re excited to share a positive leadership update. Alexandra Bignell is now Chair of the ASAN AUNZ Board, and Cheryl Koch has stepped into the role of General Manager. This change supports our next phase of work with new projects starting soon. We’re about to open Expressions of Interest for people who want to: ✅ Work with ASAN AUNZ (open now!) ✅ Join advisory or working groups ✅ Volunteer or collaborate ✅ Apply for funding for their Autistic-led group 👉 Find out more and register your interest here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/leadership-update-and-new-opportunities-at-asan-aunz/
📖 Autistic Writer Series - "How to Make Events Mor 📖 Autistic Writer Series - "How to Make Events More Accessible for Autistic People" by Zoe Simmons Our Autistic Writer Series shares powerful stories and insights from Autistic writers across Australia and New Zealand. In “How to Make Events More Accessible for Autistic People”, Zoe explains that events are often inaccessible for autistic and disabled people because organisers fail to understand or properly meet diverse access needs, leading to harmful and exclusionary experiences. She highlights that when accessibility is thoughtfully included from the beginning, events become genuinely welcoming, empowering, and beneficial for everyone. 🔗 Read Zoe’s’ story here: asan-aunz.org/how-to-make-events-more-accessible-for-autistic-people-by-zoe-simmons/ #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters ID Image 1: Graphic with a light pink background. At the top left is the ASAN AUNZ logo: positioned in a triangle are 3 overlapping circles, like a Venn diagram, with the text “ASAN AUNZ” in rainbow colors beside it. At the top right is a large blue and green speech bubble icon. The text in purple reads: “Autistic Writer Series.” Below, in large bold purple text: “How to Make Events More Accessible for Autistic People.” Underneath, smaller text reads: “By Zoe Simmons.” At the bottom right is a black-and-white photo of a person with long light hair, wearing a dark flowing outfit, holding a bunch of flowers, and raising one hand to their head while smiling slightly. Image 2: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ” in yellow and “Autistic Writer Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red.
📖 Autistic Writer Series – Introducing Zoe Simmons 📖 Autistic Writer Series – Introducing Zoe Simmons Attending events can be challenging for anyone - but for autistic and disabled people it's often made harder by environments that claim inclusivity yet fail to consider, or meet, their access needs. In “How to Make Events More Accessible for Autistic People,” Zoe Simmons highlights the gap between inclusive rhetoric and lived reality, showing how autistic and disabled people continue to face barriers at events. Zoe Simmons is an award-winning journalist, editor, copywriter, author, keynote speaker, and disability advocate—fighting to make a difference in the world, especially for the underrepresented disability community. We’re delighted to feature Zoe in our Autistic Writer Series. Stay tuned for the release of “How to Make Events More Accessible for Autistic People” later this week. 📷 Read more about Zoe Simmons: asan-aunz.org/zoe-simmons/ #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters ID: Image 1: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ” in yellow and “Autistic Writer Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. Image 2: Graphic with a light pink background. At the top left is the ASAN AUNZ logo: positioned in a triangle are 3 overlapping circles, like a Venn diagram, with the text “ASAN AUNZ” in rainbow colors beside it. At the top right is a large blue and green speech bubble icon. The text in purple reads: "Writer Series.” Below, in large bold purple text: “How to Make Events More Accessible for Autistic People.” Underneath, smaller text reads: “By Zoe Simmons.” At the bottom right is a black-and-white photo of a person with long light hair, wearing a dark flowing outfit, holding a bunch of flowers, and raising one hand to their head while smiling slightly.
📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 - "Christmas" by Dr 📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 - "Christmas" by Dr Susanne Armstrong Our Autistic Writer Series 2025 shares powerful stories and insights from Autistic writers across Australia and New Zealand. In “Christmas”, Dr Susanne Armstrong reflects on how Christmas triggers deep trauma rooted in an abusive, alcohol-fuelled childhood shaped by undiagnosed autism and lifelong cPTSD, leaving her hyper-vigilant to sounds, words and expectations of happiness. She urges compassion and small acts of kindness toward others who may be silently struggling, and finds healing through chosen family, gentle support, and reclaiming Christmas with love. 🔗 Read Dr Susanne Armstong’s story here: asan-aunz.org/christmas-by-dr-susanne-armstrong/ . . . #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters . . . ID Image 1: Pale pink background with the ASAN AUNZ logo in the top left-three overlapping circles arranged like a Venn diagram with rainbow text reading “ASAN AU NZ” beside it. Centre text reads “2025 Writer Series” above the large pink word “Christmas,” with smaller purple text below reading “By Dr Susanne Armstrong.” In the bottom right is a black-and-white circular portrait of a smiling person with light hair tied back, wearing dark-framed glasses, drop earrings, and a light-coloured cardigan. Teal speech-bubble shapes appear as decorative elements in the corners. Image 2: Dark navy background with the ASAN AUNZ logo in the top left-three overlapping circles arranged like a Venn diagram with rainbow-coloured text reading “ASAN AU NZ” beside it. Large white text in the centre reads “Autistic Writer Series,” with smaller gold text above that reads “ASAN AUNZ 2025.” Teal speech-bubble shapes appear in the corners as decorative elements.
🛠️📝📢Join ASAN AUNZ's Supported Submission Sessions 🛠️📝📢Join ASAN AUNZ's Supported Submission Sessions Tell the Australian Government what you think about: > Disability Safeguards on 15 December 2025 > Individual Disability Advocacy on 9 January 2026 > NDIS Evidence Advisory consultations on 12 January 2026 > Inquiry into the Administration of the NDIS on 23 January 2026 🔗For more details on the sessions and consultations go to: https://www.asan-aunz.org/supported-submission-sessions/ #AutisticAdvocacy #SelfAdvocacy #DisabilityRights . . . ID: Image descriptions in alt text.
🙅🏾Evidence-based lived expertise Autistic Advocacy 🙅🏾Evidence-based lived expertise Autistic Advocacy is being ignored! Whoever you are, Autistic person or Ally, we need your support! 💌 Sign our letter to Government: https://www.change.org/protect-neurodiverse-voices Ask everyone you know to join us in calling for the Government to stop eroding disability rights. 🧑🏾‍🍼🦄👨🏾‍🦽‍➡️🌈🧑🏾‍🏫👩🏾‍🔬🦓 🔗Learn more on our website: https://www.asan-aunz.org/australian-government-erodes-disability-rights/ https://www.asan-aunz.org/thriving-kids/ https://www.asan-aunz.org/the-facts-about-inklings/
The History of Autistic Advocacy ⚖️Autistic Advoc The History of Autistic Advocacy ⚖️Autistic Advocacy is part of the broader disability rights movement. 🗣️We fight for accessibility, inclusion, and the right to live freely. 📣Autistic people deserve the same rights as everyone else - no exceptions. 🔗Learn more about the history of Autistic Advocacy here: asan-aunz.org/history-of-autistic-advocacy-2/ #DisabilityRights #AutisticJustice #Neurodiversity #AutisticIdentity #AutisticHistory #SelfAdvocacy #AutisticAdvocacy #Autistic #Neurodiversity ID: On a dark navy background, large green quotation mark symbols appear in the top left and a teal-and-green overlapping speech bubble shape is in the top right. In the center, gold text reads: “Voices for accessibility, inclusion, and freedom.” Below, in white text: “The history of Autistic Advocacy.” At the bottom left, the ASAN AUNZ logo appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a Venn diagram, with the text “ASAN AUNZ” in rainbow colors beside it.
🚨NDIS & Thriving Kids ignore Autistic peoples' liv 🚨NDIS & Thriving Kids ignore Autistic peoples' lived expertise ⛓️‍💥Autistic advocacy organisations excluded ❌No co-design or genuine consultation ️Sign now: https://www.change.org/p/halt-australian-disability-reforms Join ASAN AUNZ in calling for: 🛑 stop all disability reforms until co design is restored 👁️ independent review of government compliance with human rights 🟰 equal representation of lived expertise in all reform forums 🔗Head to ASAN AUNZ's website for more information: https://www.asan-aunz.org/australian-government-erodes-disability-rights/ #DisabilityRights #AutisticRights #SystemicAdvocacy #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #DisabilityReformFail #ThrivingKidsBreaksTrust #StopRoboNDIS . . . Image Description in Alt Text.
⚠️⛓️‍💥Australian Government erodes disability righ ⚠️⛓️‍💥Australian Government erodes disability rights, ignores Autistic people 😟🏛️Autistic advocacy organisations are being excluded from NDIS Reforms and Thriving Kids. 🏗️🏫❌The Government is not co-designing reforms in partnership with us. ️‼️Signing our open letter now: https://www.change.org/protect-neurodiverse-voices Join ASAN AUNZ in calling for: 🛑 stop all disability reforms until co design is restored 👁️ independent review of government compliance with human rights 🟰 equal representation of lived expertise in all reform forums 🔗Head to our website for ASAN AUNZ’s media statement, open letter and complaint to the Australian Human Rights Commission: https://www.asan-aunz.org/australian-government-erodes-disability-rights/ #DisabilityRights #AutisticRights #SystemicAdvocacy #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #DisabilityReformFail #ThrivingKidsBreaksTrust #StopRoboNDIS . . . Image Descriptions in Alt Text.
The History of Autistic Advocacy 📣In 2006, Ari Ne The History of Autistic Advocacy 📣In 2006, Ari Ne’eman co-founded the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) to ensure autistic voices were heard in policy and public discourse. 👥ASAN pushed back against harmful narratives and fought for disability rights. 🤝Because nothing about us, without us. 🔗Learn more about the history of Autistic Advocacy here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/history-of-autistic-advocacy/ . . . . . #ASAN #AutisticRights #AutisticHistory #SelfAdvocacy #AutisticAdvocacy #Autistic #Neurodiversity #ASANAUNZ . . . ID: Dark background graphic with bright text reading “Nothing about us, without us” in red and “The history of autistic advocacy” in yellow. A colorful speech bubble appears in the top right and a large purple exclamation mark on the right. In the bottom left is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red.
📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 - "Yes, Masking and 📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 - "Yes, Masking and More" by Rachael Burns Our Autistic Writer Series 2025 shares powerful stories and insights from Autistic writers across Australia and New Zealand. In “Yes, Masking and More”, Rachael Burns explores the difference between everyday social masking and the deeper, more ingrained form experienced by neurodivergent people. She suggests that for many, masking isn’t a temporary performance but a lifelong adaptation so intertwined with identity that it can become inseparable from the self. 🔗 Read Rachael's story here: asan-aunz.org/yes-masking-and-more-by-rachael-burns/ #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters @rachael_burns ID: Image 1: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ 2025” in yellow and “Autistic Writer Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. Image 2: Graphic with a light pink background. At the top left is the ASAN AUNZ logo: positioned in a triangle are 3 overlapping circles, like a Venn diagram, with the text “ASAN AUNZ” in rainbow colors beside it. At the top right is a large blue and green speech bubble icon. The text in purple reads: “2025 Writer Series.” Below, in large bold purple text: “Yes, Masking, and More.” Underneath, smaller text reads: “By Rachael Burns.” At the bottom right is a black-and-white photo of a person with long dark hair, eyeliner, and a slight smile, looking directly at the camera.
📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 – Introducing Rachae 📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 – Introducing Rachael Burns Masking isn’t just a polite smile or social filter - for many neurodivergent people, it’s a complex survival strategy so deeply woven into identity that the line between the mask and the self can become impossible to see. In “Yes, Masking and More,” Rachael Burns explores the complex and often misunderstood reality of neurodivergent masking, challenging the notion that “everyone masks.” Rachael is a 22-year-old mental health and disability advocate drawing on her own lived experience in both spaces. She is passionate about contributing to a world in which human rights are honoured and dignity is afforded to all, regardless of their experiences. We’re delighted to feature Rachael in our 2025 Autistic Writer Series. Stay tuned for the release of “Yes, Masking and More” later this week. 📷 Read more about Rachael: asan-aunz.org/rachael-burns/ #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters ID Image 1: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ 2025” in yellow and “Autistic Writer Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red with the rainbow text “ASAN AUNZ” belowit. Image 2: A black-and-white close-up portrait of a young woman with long dark hair, looking slightly toward the camera with a neutral expression. She has winged eyeliner and natural features visible. In the top left corner is the ASAN AUNZ logo, which features three overlapping circles in a triangle shape like a Venn diagram with the rainbow text “ASAN AUNZ” beside it. In the lower portion of the image, there is a semi-transparent dark rectangle with the name “RACHAEL BURNS” written in white capital letters. There is also a colourful speech bubble graphic in the upper right corner.
📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 - "On the Validity o 📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 - "On the Validity of Self-Diagnosis" by Devon Webb Our Autistic Writer Series 2025 shares powerful stories and insights from Autistic writers across Australia and New Zealand. In “On the Validity of Self-Diagnosis", Devon Webb reflects on how online autistic communities helped her see beyond narrow stereotypes and recognise her own experiences. Through this process, she gained language to understand her challenges and tools to advocate for her needs — illustrating the empowering role of self-identification in shaping identity and belonging. 🔗 Read Devon’s story here: asan-aunz.org/on-the-validity-of-self-diagnosis-by-devon-webb/ #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters @devonwebbnz ID Image 1: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ 2025” in yellow and “Autistic Writer Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colourful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. Image 2: Graphic with a light pink background. At the top left is the ASAN AUNZ logo: positioned in a triangle are 3 overlapping circles, like a Venn diagram, with the text “ASAN AUNZ” in rainbow colours beside it. At the top right is a large blue and green speech bubble icon. The text in purple reads: “2025 Writer Series.” Below, in larger bold purple text: “On the Validity of Self-Diagnosis.” Underneath, smaller text reads: “By Devon Webb.” At the bottom right is a black-and-white photo of a person with long dark hair, wearing glasses and a patterned sweater, looking directly at the camera.
📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 – Introducing Devon 📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 – Introducing Devon Webb Social media has amplified conversations about autism - and with it, a growing movement of people identifying as autistic without formal diagnosis. In her upcoming piece "On the Validity of Self-Diagnosis", Devon Webb reflects on how online autistic communities helped her rethink long-held assumptions and find belonging. Devon Webb is an autistic writer & editor based in Aotearoa, with award-winning work published extensively in over a hundred publications worldwide. We’re delighted to feature Devon in our 2025 Autistic Writer Series. Stay tuned for the release of “On the Validity of Self-Diagnosis” later this week. 📷 Read more about Devon Webb: https://www.asan-aunz.org/devon-webb/ #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters @devonwebbnz ID Image 1: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ 2025” in yellow and “Autistic Writer Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. Image 2: Graphic with a light pink background. At the top left is the ASAN AUNZ logo: positioned in a triangle are 3 overlapping circles, like a Venn diagram, with the text “ASAN AUNZ” in rainbow colors beside it. At the top right is a large blue and green speech bubble icon. The text in purple reads: “2025 Writer Series.” Below, in larger bold purple text: “On the Validity of Self-Diagnosis.” Underneath, smaller text reads: “By Devon Webb.” At the bottom right is a black-and-white photo of a person with long dark hair, wearing glasses and a patterned sweater, looking directly at the camera.
📅 Last chance to register! ⭐ 🎗️A friendly reminde 📅 Last chance to register! ⭐ 🎗️A friendly reminder that you must register to join us for our Special and Annual General Meetings online tomorrow (or you won't have the meeting link😟). 📃If you are interested in Autistic advocacy in Australia or Aotearoa New Zealand, register now: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/452cbe1b-6c02-4e4b-a4a9-f136ceda9962@8b4a4226-9897-4b16-ab58-0d5f876f4b73 🗳️To vote you must be an Autistic Member of ASAN AUNZ. You can join now for free: https://asan-aunz.supporterhub.net.au/pages/asan-aunz-membership 🔗Get more details, including the agenda and meeting time for your time zone, on our website: https://www.asan-aunz.org/2025-asan-aunz-sgm-and-agm/ #AutisticAdvocacy #SelfAdvocacy #AutisticRights . . . . Image Descriptions Image 1: A square graphic with a purple background and a large light pink speech bubble shape. The main text in the centre reads: “Want to attend ASAN AUNZ's 2025 General Meetings tomorrow? Register now to get the link” in large red font. Above that in smaller purple font are the words "ASAN AUNZ 2025 General Meetings". At the bottom is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. To the right in various colours are the letters ASAN AUNZ. Colorful abstract circular shapes decorate the bottom right corner. Image 2: A black square graphic. In the bottom of the graphic is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. The bottom left circle has a small kick extended out like a thought/word bubble. To the right of the circles in colourful letters it says ‘ASAN AUNZ’. In the centre of the graphic in blue and red it says ‘ASAN AUNZ Event. 2025. ASAN AUNZ Special & Annual General Meetings’. On the top right is more colourful quarter circle graphic elements.
The History of Autistic Advocacy ♾️ Judy Singer c The History of Autistic Advocacy ♾️ Judy Singer coined the term “neurodiversity” in the late 1990s, shifting the conversation from deficits to diversity. 🧠 Neurodiversity recognises that autistic brains aren’t broken—they’re different. ✨This movement is about acceptance, not assimilation. 📖Learn more about the history of Autistic Advocacy here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/history-of-autistic-advocacy/ . . . . . #Neurodiversity #AutisticIdentity #AutisticHistory #SelfAdvocacy #AutisticAdvocacy #Autistic #Neurodiversity #ASANANUZ . . . ID: Dark background graphic with text reading “Acceptance, not assimilation” in pale pink and “The history of autistic advocacy” in yellow. A large purple exclamation mark appears on the right, and a colorful speech bubble is in the top right corner. In the bottom left is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red.
Shaping the Future of ASAN AUNZ - New Board Nomine Shaping the Future of ASAN AUNZ - New Board Nominees! 📣🌈 🌟We are proud to share the nominees for our volunteer Board Member positions! Our volunteer board is vital to the Autistic advocacy space in Australia and New Zealand and holds the responsibility of shaping the future of our organisation. We are excited by the wonderful calibre of nominees for this round of board vacancies! 📌There are 6 volunteer Board vacancies and 6 nominees. 🔗To check out each of the nominees head to: https://www.asan-aunz.org/nominees-for-volunteer-board-members/ 📝To vote, you need to be an Autistic member of ASAN AUNZ and attend our online AGM. 🔗Join here for free: https://asan-aunz.supporterhub.net.au/pages/asan-aunz-membership 📣We’ll be voting and announcing our new Board members at our AGM. 🗂️🖥️Our AGM will be held online on Sunday 2nd November 2025. 🔗The meeting times, in each time zone are available here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/2025-asan-aunz-sgm-and-agm/ 🔗Please register below to attend the online SGM and AGM. https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/452cbe1b-6c02-4e4b-a4a9-f136ceda9962@8b4a4226-9897-4b16-ab58-0d5f876f4b73 🔗You can get more details and read our agenda on our website here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/2025-asan-aunz-sgm-and-agm/ . 🌟We look forward to welcoming our new Board members! . . . . #BoardContributions #VolunteerBoard #BoardNominees #AutisticAdvocacy . . . . ID: A black square graphic. In the bottom of the graphic is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. The bottom left circle has a small kick extended out like a thought/word bubble. To the right of the logo in various colours are the letters ASAN AUNZ. In the centre of the graphic in white & red it says ‘2025 nominees for volunteer board members’. On the top right is more colourful quarter circle graphic elements.
📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 - "Distinguishing Au 📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 - "Distinguishing Autistic Traits From Eating Disorder Behaviours" by Livia Sara Our Autistic Writer Series 2025 shares powerful stories and insights from Autistic writers across Australia and New Zealand. In “Distinguishing Autistic Traits From Eating Disorder Behaviours", Livia Sara examines how traditional eating disorder treatments often misunderstand autistic individuals, labelling sensory sensitivities and a need for routine as disordered behaviours. She proposes an approach that distinguishes fear-driven eating disorder behaviours from love-based autistic traits, offering a more compassionate and effective path to recovery. 🔗 Read Livia’s story here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/distinguishing-autistic-traits-from-eating-disorder-behaviours-by-livia-sara/ #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters ID: Image 1: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ 2025” in yellow and “Autistic Writers Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. Image 2: Graphic with a light pink background. At the top left is the ASAN AUNZ logo: positioned in a triangle are 3 overlapping circles, like a Venn diagram, with the text “ASAN AUNZ” in rainbow colors beside it. At the top right is a large blue and green speech bubble icon. The text reads: “2025 Writer Series” in purple, followed by larger purple text: “Distinguishing Autistic Traits From Eating Disorder Behaviours” and below that: “By Livia Sara.” At the bottom right is a black-and-white photo of a smiling person with long hair, wearing a hoodie, seated in front of a window.
📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 – Introducing Livia 📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 – Introducing Livia Sara Food should be simple - but for many on the autism spectrum, every meal can feel like a minefield of textures, changes, and unspoken social rules. In her upcoming piece "Distinguishing Autistic Traits from Eating Disorder Behaviours", Livia Sara explores how sensory sensitivities and rigid routines around eating can escalate into anorexia - as she discovered herself before realising her own autism - and how that struggle can transform into a powerful mission to help others turn their MESS into their MESSage and use autistic traits as tools for recovery. Livia is an autism advocate and eating disorder survivor that now helps others overcome their own mental barriers through her courses, coaching programs, and books. We’re delighted to feature Livia in our 2025 Autistic Writer Series. Stay tuned for the release of “Distinguishing Autistic Traits from Eating Disorder Behaviours” later this week. 📷 Read more about Livia Sara at the link in our bio #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters ID Image 1: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ 2025” in yellow and “Autistic Writers Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. Image 2: Graphic with a light pink background. At the top left is the ASAN AUNZ logo: positioned in a triangle are 3 overlapping circles, like a Venn diagram, with the text “ASAN AUNZ” in rainbow colors beside it. At the top right is a large blue and green speech bubble icon. The text reads: “2025 Writer Series” in purple, followed by larger purple text: “Distinguishing Autistic Traits From Eating Disorder Behaviours” and below that: “By Livia Sara.” At the bottom right is a black-and-white photo of a smiling person with long hair, wearing a hoodie, seated in front of a window.
📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 - "Introspection" by 📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 - "Introspection" by Dr Susanne Armstrong Our Autistic Writer Series 2025 shares powerful stories and insights from Autistic writers across Australia and New Zealand. In “Introspection”, Dr Susanne Armstrong explores what it means to rebuild and reimagine life following a late autism diagnosis. Drawing on her professional experience in mental health and suicide prevention, she reflects on themes of resilience, self-understanding, and finding peace within difference. 🔗 Read Susanne's story here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/intospection-by-dr-susanne-armstrong/ . . . #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters . . . ID: Image 1: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ 2025” in yellow and “Autistic Writers Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. Image 2: The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a Venn diagram. On a pale pink background, centered text reads: “2025 Writer Series.” Below, in large bold purple letters: “CHRISTMAS.” Underneath, smaller text says: “By Dr Susanne Armstrong.” In the bottom right corner, inside a curved cut-out, is a black-and-white photo of a smiling person with long hair pulled back, wearing glasses and earrings. A large teal and green speech bubble graphic is in the upper right corner.
📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 – Introducing Dr Sus 📖 Autistic Writer Series 2025 – Introducing Dr Susanne Armstrong What happens when a grief counsellor and educator turns her focus inward after a late autism diagnosis? In her upcoming piece, “Introspection,” Dr Susanne Armstrong explores resilience, identity, and rediscovering self-understanding following a late autism diagnosis. Dr Susanne Armstrong is an experienced grief counsellor, mentor, facilitator, nurse and adult educator, with lived experience of autism. She holds several senior roles in consultancy, advisory, education and research across national, state and regional suicide prevention and mental health organisations, advocating for policy change and service improvements that foster compassion and understanding of autism and neurodivergence. We’re delighted to feature Susanne in our 2025 Autistic Writer Series. Stay tuned for the release of “Introspection” later this week. 📷 Read more about Dr Armstrong: https://www.asan-aunz.org/dr-susanne-armstrong/ #AutisticWriterSeries #ASANAUNZ #AutisticAdvocacy #AutisticCreativity #AutisticCommunity #AutisticWriters . . . ID: Image 1: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ 2025” in yellow and “Autistic Writer Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. Image 2: The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a Venn diagram. On a pale pink background, centered text reads: “2025 Writer Series.” Below, in large bold purple letters: “INTROSPECTION.” Underneath, smaller text says: “By Dr Susanne Armstrong.” In the bottom right corner, inside a curved cut-out, is a black-and-white photo of a smiling woman with long hair pulled back, wearing glasses and earrings. A large teal and green speech bubble graphic is in the upper right corner.
Nominations Open for New Volunteer Board Members! Nominations Open for New Volunteer Board Members! 🏳️‍🌈📣 We encourage Autistic members of ASAN AUNZ living in Australia or New Zealand to nominate for volunteer positions on our board. 📅Nominations are open until Sunday 19th October 2025. ASAN AUNZ is committed to expanding diversity on our Board, so that we authentically represent our members and the broader Autistic community. 💬We encourage nominees to tell us how they would bring diverse perspectives and lived experience to the Board. To nominate, you can use the nomination form on our website or download a form to send to secretary@asan-aunz.org. We strongly encourage people with one (or more) of these skills to apply: 📍Financial management and/or accounting 📍Familiarity with minute-taking and policy review 📍Experience working with vulnerable people 📍Information technology administration 📍Co-design facilitation and participation 📍Accessibility including online and easy read If elected, board members will be expected to: 📍Provide hands-on support to the organisation 📍Commit to 10-15 hours per month, including meetings 📍Participate in training and mentoring sessions Information in your application may be posted on our website. 🔗For further details on nominations head to: https://www.asan-aunz.org/nominations-open-for-new-volunteer-board-members/ . . ID: A dark red square graphic. In the bottom of the graphic is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. The bottom left circle has a small kick extended out like a thought/word bubble. To the right of the circles in colourful letters it says 'ASAN AUNZ'. In blue text at the top it reads 'Open now until Sunday 19th October 2025‘ with white large vertical text on the left it reads '2025' and in bold yellow in the centre it reads 'Nominations open for new volunteer board members'. On the top right is more colourful quarter circle graphic elements.
Join us for our upcoming SGM and AGM! The Autisti Join us for our upcoming SGM and AGM! The Autistic Self Advocacy Network of Australia and New Zealand is holding its 2025 SGM and AGM on Sunday 1st November 2025. If you are interested in Autistic self advocacy, we invite you to attend; this is an opportunity to meet other members, learn what we are doing, and vote. We will be voting on changes to our rules and electing Board Members! To vote, you need to be an Autistic member of ASAN AUNZ. We’d love to welcome you to our community. Join for free at the link below: https://asan-aunz.supporterhub.net.au/pages/asan-aunz-membership Our meeting will be held online on Sunday the 1st of November 2025. The meeting times, in each time zone are available here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/2025-asan-aunz-sgm-and-agm/ At the meetings we’ll be discussing our work, voting on changes and electing new board members. You can get more details and register to attend on our website here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/2025-asan-aunz-sgm-and-agm/ . . Image Description: A black square graphic. In the bottom of the graphic is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. The bottom left circle has a small kick extended out like a thought/word bubble. To the right of the circles in colourful letters it says ‘ASAN AUNZ’. In the centre of the graphic in blue and red it says ‘ASAN AUNZ Event. 2025. ASAN AUNZ Special & Annual General Meetings’. On the top right is more colourful quarter circle graphic elements.
Systemic Advocacy - NDIS Support Needs Assessment Systemic Advocacy - NDIS Support Needs Assessment Tool 🔍🪄📃 🏛️The Australian Government has announced the I-CAN support needs assessment will be used to develop its tool to measure supports needs in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). 🦺🎯Autistic peoples' perspectives must shape co-development to deliver a Needs Assessment tool that is safe, fair and accurate for our people. 🪟🧮🛟Transparency in how budgets are calculated, and a strong right of review are essential. 🔗Head to our website for ASAN AUNZ’s media statement: https://www.asan-aunz.org/ndis-needs-assessment-tool/ Here is the Minister's media release: https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10927-new-tool-deliver-simpler-pathway-disability-supports Image Description: A pink square graphic, with black top right, rounded corner. Over the top right corner is the bottom left segment of the ASAN AUNZ logo in blue, green and purple. To the left in blue bold text it reads ‘Media Release’. Beneath that in black text is the date, 26 September 2025. In big, bold dark pink text in the centre it says 'NDIS Needs Assessment tool' Beneath that in purple it says 'Autistic people must co-develop the tool for it to be safe, fair & accurate for us.' On the bottom left is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. The bottom left circle has a small kick extended out like a thought/word bubble. To the right in multiple colours it reads ASAN AUNZ.
🗣️“Yes, the NDIS is ableist, and fighting it takes 🗣️“Yes, the NDIS is ableist, and fighting it takes a personal toll. Together, though, we’re creating change.” Elena Filipczyk is an autistic writer and PhD candidate who writes about autism, disability, and animals. Her articles have been published by the Sydney Morning Herald, New York Post, Canberra Times, news.com.au, ABC, SBS, and others. In 2023, her essay “Pink skates, autistic limbs” was published in the Hardie Grant anthology Emergence. 🔗 Find Elena’s story here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/yes-the-ndis-is-ableist-elena-filipczyk/ . . . ID: Image 1: Dark background graphic with text reading “ASAN AUNZ 2025” in yellow and “Autistic Writers Series” in large white letters. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. Image 2: A graphic with a pale pink background. The ASAN AUNZ logo of overlapping colorful circles appears in the top left, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Below it, the heading reads “2025 Writer Series.” Large bold text in purple states: “YES, THE NDIS IS ABLEIST.” Beneath it is smaller text: “By Elena Filipczyk.” On the lower right, inside a curved cut-out shape, is a black and white photo of a person with medium-length dark hair wearing a dark top, taking a mirror selfie with a phone. Behind them are posters and shelves filled with CDs. A large teal and green speech bubble graphic is in the upper right corner.
📢Have your say – New Zealand’s Disability Strategy 📢Have your say – New Zealand’s Disability Strategy The New Zealand Government is refreshing its Disability Strategy for the first time in a decade. This is your chance to: 📝Share your experiences and priorities as autistic people, families, and whānau. 🌈Show why supports must be neuro-affirming, inclusive, and accessible. 👥Make sure services reflect our community’s real needs. 🫶Ensure accountability so families aren’t left to navigate under-resourced systems alone. How you can help: ✅ Take the survey – there are lots of different ways to have your say. ✅ Share it widely – especially with autistic people and families across Aotearoa. ✅ Tell your story – your feedback will shape whether the new Strategy lifts up or lets down our community. 🔗 Take the survey and find out more information here: https://www.whaikaha.govt.nz/news/news/public-consultation-on-draft-new-zealand-disability-strategy-open #AutisticAdvocacy #SelfAdvocacy #DisabilityStrategy #ASANAUNZ #AutismRights #DisabilityInclusion #Accessibility #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs Image description in Alt Text.
📖 Jim Sinclair’s 1993 speech “Don’t Mourn for Us” 📖 Jim Sinclair’s 1993 speech “Don’t Mourn for Us” changed everything. 🌈 It challenged the idea that autism is a tragedy and laid the foundation for Autistic Self-Advocacy. 👥 Autism Network International (ANI) became a space where autistic people could connect, support each other, and fight for our rights. 🌟 This spark grew into today's Autistic Advocacy movement, lighting the way for change that continues today. 🔗 Learn more about the history of Autistic Advocacy here: https://www.asan-aunz.org/history-of-autistic-advocacy/ . . . . . #AutisticHistory #SelfAdvocacy #AutisticAdvocacy #Autistic #Neurodiversity . . . ID: A square graphic with a deep navy blue background and a large speech bubble shape, bordered by a bold red color. At the top left are two pink quotation marks. The main text in the center reads: “Don’t mourn for us” in large white font. Below that, in smaller mustard text, it says: “The history of autistic advocacy.” At the bottom is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. Colorful abstract circular shapes decorate the bottom right and left corners.
👥 Why Autistic Advocacy history matters 📖 Autisti 👥 Why Autistic Advocacy history matters 📖 Autistic Advocacy didn’t start yesterday. It’s a movement built by autistic people, for autistic people - and it continues to shape our future. 🔑 Knowing our history isn't just about looking back. It helps us understand the struggles and wins that brought us here, and how we can push for change together. 🌈 Over the coming months, we’ll take you through the key moments that shaped Autistic Advocacy. 🌊 Let's dive in. 🔗https://www.asan-aunz.org/history-of-autistic-advocacy/ . . . . . #AutisticAdvocacy #NeurodiversityMovement #Autistic #Neurodiversity #AutisticAcceptance #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs . . . ID: A dark navy graphic with large white text reading: “How did we get here?” Below that, in yellow text, it says: “The history of autistic advocacy.” In the bottom left is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. On the right side is a large pink question mark stylized as a speech bubble. In the top right corner is a partial blue and green speech bubble.
Autistic Advisory – Valuing Lived Experience! 🗣️💬 Autistic Advisory – Valuing Lived Experience! 🗣️💬 🥇Aboriginal, Takiwātanga, Torres Strait Islander and Pasifika people are encouraged to express an interest. 📐🛟Help ASAN AUNZ build culturally respectful resources. 💵All advisory group participants receive an honorarium 📅Expressions of Interest for Advisory Groups close this Sunday 14 September 🔗Go to our website for more details: https://www.asan-aunz.org/thriving-autistic-advisory-project/ 📧 If you have feedback on how we can better connect with your community, please email us operations@asan-aunz.org . . . Image description: A purple square graphic, with a light pink circle that fills the graphic. The bottom left of the circle has a small kick extended out like a thought/word bubble. Inside the circle at the top is purple text that reads ‘Autistic Advisory’. Inside the circle at the centre is large red text that reads ‘ASAN AUNZ values lived experience’ and on the next line in purple text is reads "Express your interest in joining an Autistic advisory group - honorariums apply" Beneath this in large red text it reads "Torres Strait Islander, Aboriginal, Pasifika, Takiwātanga" Inside the circle at the bottom centre is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. To the right of the circles in colourful letters it says ‘ASAN AUNZ’. In the bottom right corner is the bottom right is a segment of the logo, overlapping the light pink circle.
📣 Have your say – Thriving Kids Program Community 📣 Have your say – Thriving Kids Program Community Pulse Survey The Australian government’s Thriving Kids Program is being designed for 0–8 year olds who may need supports beyond what neurotypical children usually receive. 🔍 While investment in inclusion is welcome, the Australian Autism Alliance, with ASAN AUNZ as a member, has raised concerns—especially about children being diverted from the NDIS without robust alternatives or meaningful consultation. 📝 Take the Community Pulse Survey and help ensure the program meets the diverse needs of autistic children and their families. Your input can 👥 Share whether labels like “mild” or “moderate” autism reflect your lived reality. 🌱 Show how support needs change and why families shouldn’t be left to navigate under-resourced services alone. 🌈 Make it clear that supports must be neuro-affirming, inclusive, & accountable. 🫶 Help shape a program that truly meet our community’s diverse needs. How you can help ✅ Take the survey—its quick, confidential, and there's no right or wrong answers. ✅ Share it widely—especially with autistic people and families of kids aged 0–8. ✅ Tell your story—your feedback will shape whether Thriving Kids lifts up or lets down our community. 🔗 Take the survey here: https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8443302/aust-autism-alliance-thriving-kids-community-feedback #AutisticAdvocacy #SelfAdvocacy #Consultation #ASANAUNZ #AusPol #AutismRights #DisabilityInclusion #Accessibility #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs Image description in Alt Text.
🤔Do you want to contribute to systemic advocacy? 🤔Do you want to contribute to systemic advocacy? 🫵We want diverse autistic people to contribute through participation as advisory group members, employees, volunteers or active members of ASAN AUNZ. 🔗To find out about working with ASAN AUNZ, visit website: https://www.asan-aunz.org/working-with-asan-aunz/ . . . . . . . . Image Description: A black square graphic. In the bottom left of the graphic is the ASAN AUNZ logo, positioned in a triangle is 3 overlapping circles, like a venn diagram. Each segment is a different colour, cyan, blue, magenta, green, yellow, red. To the right of the circles in colourful letters it says ‘ASAN AUNZ’. On the bottom right is the top left segment of the ASAN AUNZ logo. There are 4 horizontal stripes of different colours. All the stripes start on the left with a white icon in the centre of a circle, and extend to the edge of the graphic on the right. The top stripe is dark green with an icon of a hand, next is dark blue with a heart inside a head, third is dark purple with a speaker and the bottom stripe is dark pink with an eye. In dark pink at the top, and white over the four stripes, it reads: Are you interested in working with us? Community Support Project Officer Advisory Group Member Volunteer Learn more ...
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