The Neurodiverse Safe Work (NDSW) Initiative is a pioneering social enterprise dedicated to fostering inclusive and safe workplaces for neurodivergent individuals. By addressing neurodiversity, work health and safety (WHS), and employee well-being, NDSW empowers organisations with the tools and knowledge to create lasting, meaningful change.
Notably, NDSW was honoured as a finalist in the 2024 MBRIT (Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism) Awards, recognising its significant contributions to workplace inclusivity.
At the heart of this initiative is the Neurodiverse Safe Work Academy, offering a range of evidence-based courses designed to educate and inspire organisations to adopt neurodiversity-affirming practices.
Each course is meticulously crafted to provide participants with practical knowledge and actionable strategies to foster inclusivity and improve workplace culture.
Why Choose the Neurodiverse Safe Work Academy?
- Recognised Excellence – As a finalist in the 2024 MBRIT Awards, NDSW has been recognised for its innovative approach and significant contribution to fostering safer, more inclusive workplaces.
- Expertise and Empathy – Led by Catherine Lee, Director and Founder of the NDSW Initiative, the Academy blends professional expertise more than 30 years’ experience in OHS Management across a broad range of industries with lived experience, ensuring every course is both impactful and practical.
- Real-Life Applications – Courses are built around actionable insights, real-world examples, and research-backed strategies, enabling participants to make immediate, meaningful changes in their workplaces.
- Tailored Training Solutions – Each course can be delivered in-person upon request and customised to address your organisation’s unique needs. Tailored sessions allow for deeper engagement and provide practical, context-specific strategies that make an immediate impact.
The Academy offers a comprehensive suite of courses tailored to empower individuals and teams to create neurodiversity-friendly environments. Below is an overview of the current offerings, their target audiences, and the importance of each course.
1. Neurodiverse Safe Work Foundations Course
Who It’s For – HR professionals, workplace safety professionals, managers, and anyone committed to fostering inclusion.
What You’ll Learn
- Fundamental principles of neurodiversity.
- Practical strategies for creating safer, inclusive workplaces.
- Insights into WHS standards tailored for neurodivergent employees.
- Real-world case studies and actionable takeaways.
Why It’s Important – This course provides foundational knowledge essential for understanding neurodiversity and implementing effective inclusion strategies in the workplace.
“The content was great and very informative. I liked the smaller learning environment. It allowed wider discussions and the freedom to ask questions. Cathy’s lived experience and extensive WHS knowledge made the course truly exceptional.”
2. Neurodiverse Safe Work Foundations Course II (Accreditation Course)
Who It’s For – Organisational leaders, HR teams, OHS Professionals and policy developers.
What You’ll Learn
- Comprehensive understanding of neurodiversity in employment.
- Best practices for supporting neurodivergent employees.
- Frameworks to align policies with WHS standards.
- Real-life case studies to solidify learning.
Why It’s Important – This course ensures participants gain recognised expertise to drive meaningful change and develop policies that celebrate neurodiversity.
Accreditation – Once successfully completed, participants are eligible to receive the micro-credential, BSBWHS411 – Implement and monitor WHS policies, procedures and programs issued by registered training organisation Knowledge Access (#40961).
“Catherine provided a safe, comfortable, and engaging learning environment. I took so much away from the session that will enable positive changes in our organisation.”
3. Neurodiversity Inclusion for Human Resources Professionals
Who It’s For – HR professionals and recruiters.
What You’ll Learn
- How to develop policies that celebrate neurodiversity.
- Best practices for supporting neurodivergent employees throughout the employment cycle.
- Frameworks to align HR processes with WHS standards.
Why It’s Important – Strong HR policies reduce workplace barriers and help retain neurodivergent talent, driving organisational success.
“The case studies brought the learning to life, and the level of detail was excellent.”
4. Neurodiversity Awareness for Coaches
Who It’s For – Professional workplace coaches and mentors.
What You’ll Learn:
- Understanding of different types of neurodivergent functioning.
- Strategies for working effectively with neurodivergent clients.
- Tools and resources to support neurodivergent individuals in coaching contexts.
Why It’s Important – Coaches equipped with this knowledge can better support their clients, fostering personal and professional growth
Courses under development for release in 2025
The Academy is continually expanding to meet the evolving needs of modern workplaces.
1. Neurodiversity Inclusion for Managers and Supervisors
Who It’s For – Team leaders, supervisors and managers who oversee neurodivergent employees.
What You’ll Learn
- Communication techniques to support neurodivergent team members.
- Adjustments to foster inclusion and productivity.
- Strategies for resolving workplace challenges.
Why It’s Important – Effective support enhances employee satisfaction, reduces turnover, improves team performance and safety and builds cohesion.
2. Neurodiversity Inclusion for Safety Leaders
Who It’s For – WHS Manager and Compliance Managers.
What You’ll Learn:
- Integrating neurodiversity into WHS practices.
- Risk assessments tailored for diverse workplaces.
- Case studies showcasing successful implementation.
Why It’s Important – A safer workplace benefits everyone, reducing risks and ensuring compliance with WHS standards.
3. Neurodiversity Inclusion for Boards and Executive Leadership Teams
Who It’s For – Board Members and Executive Leadership Teams.
What You’ll Learn
- Understanding the primary duty of care to ensure the health and safety of all workers including those who think and function differently.
- Examples of companies that have implemented neuroinclusive practices.
- Strategic advantages of embracing neurodiversity at the leadership level.
- The business case for neurodiversity inclusion.
Why It’s Important – Leadership commitment is crucial for fostering an inclusive culture and driving organisational change.
Your Input Matters!
Have ideas for courses you’d like to see? Share your suggestions with the NDSW Academy and contribute to shaping future offerings.
Professional Development
We can offer Professional Development Seminars and training workshops for professional bodies and organisations. Some of these have included:
- The Australian Institute of Health and Safety
- The Australasian Psychological Society
- The Human Factors and Ergonomics Society of Australia
- Speech Pathology Australia
- Work Health and Safety Queensland
- Australian Institute of Professional Intelligence Officers
- Attention Deficit Disorder Association
- Australian National University (National Securities College)
- Queensland Nurses and Midwives Union
- Protect All Children Today (PACT)
- University of Queensland Faculty of Business, Economics and Law
- Aviation and Aerospace Australia
- Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal
- Queensland Department of Justice and Attorney General
Upcoming In-Person Workshop
This course will be presented live at the Mon Komo Hotel in Redcliffe, Queensland, on Friday 2 May 2025. Spaces are limited—book your spot now to secure your participation!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Neurodiverse Safe Work Initiative?
The NDSW Initiative is a social enterprise focused on creating safer, more inclusive workplaces through training, resources, and advocacy for neurodivergent individuals.
How does the Academy reinvest profits?
As a social enterprise, operating profits are reinvested into developing new resources, training programs, and advocacy efforts to advance neurodiversity in the workplace.
What recognition has NDSW received?
NDSW was honoured as a finalist in the 2024 MBRIT Awards, recognising its impact and innovation in fostering workplace inclusivity.
Can courses be tailored for my organisation?
Absolutely! The NDSW Academy specialises in creating tailored training sessions to meet the specific needs of your organisation.
Are the courses available online?
Yes, all courses are available online and can also be delivered in person upon request or via a hybrid model in-person and live-streamed to a remote audience.
How do I register for the any of the courses?
Visit the NDSW Academy website to book your place today.
By enrolling in the Neurodiverse Safe Work Academy, you’re joining a movement dedicated to inclusivity and safety while supporting a mission-driven social enterprise. Explore the Academy’s courses and take the first step towards transforming your workplace today!