We are delighted that Nicole will be speaking in Sydney this November as part of our Wellbeing at Work Summit Australia. We caught up with her to find out how she’s feeling in the run up to the summit.
Hi Nicole, we are thrilled you will be speaking at our Wellbeing at Work Summit Australia in November. Our first and most important question is, how are you doing today?
I’m feeling fabulous and refreshed after taking a week’s annual leave to explore Australia’s Red Centre. It was an incredible holiday for my wellbeing, spent with family, as we experienced the stunning beauty and deep connection to country at Uluru and Kata Tjuta. We also learnt from the Anangu People, the Traditional Owners of the land, about their traditions and stewardship of the environment and wildlife.
As a leader based in the region, what are the main challenges you are facing when it comes to employee wellbeing?
As a neurodiversity specialist, I see the biggest challenges in training and enablement. While most individuals and organisations intend to be inclusive, there’s a notable gap in understanding neuro-inclusion and investing in training for it. Unfortunately, when the economy tightens, investment in people tends to drop off, which can have significant consequences on employment rates, individual wellbeing, and the overall psychosocial safety of the workplace.
What strategies have you seen developing over the past 6 months, both internally and externally, that are moving the dial on wellbeing in the workplace?
I’ve seen encouraging progress in some HR and talent teams adopting inclusive recruitment practices and offering adjustments throughout the hiring process. It’s inspiring to see organisations embedding a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and lived experience into their HR functions, which helps foster a more inclusive environment.
Why is employee wellbeing so important to you personally?
I strongly believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive at work—to feel a sense of belonging and success. This is essential not just for individual wellbeing, but also for the health of organisations. When teams are thriving and diverse, they are more productive, innovative, and able to solve complex problems. People who feel seen, valued, and able to be their authentic selves at work are more loyal and engaged.
What are you most looking forward to about the Summit in November?
I’m really looking forward to networking and learning from others. I’m naturally very curious, and this event is a great opportunity to exchange ideas and insights with peers who share a passion for workplace wellbeing.
Tell us, what is your vision for the future workplace, in terms of engagement, health and wellbeing?
I’m really looking forward to networking and learning from others. I’m naturally very curious, and this event is a great opportunity to exchange ideas and insights with peers who share a passion for workplace wellbeing.
What areas do you think employers should be focused on over the next 12 months?
Over the next 12 months, employers should focus on strengthening inclusive practices, particularly in how they support neurodiverse employees (estimated to be up to 20% of the Australian workforce) and those with unique learning or working needs. Providing access to tailored training, adjustments, and flexible working arrangements is crucial for long-term engagement.
How has your organisation been leading the way?
Our organisation has been at the forefront of neurodiversity advocacy, integrating neuro-inclusion principles into every aspect of our work. We have committed to ongoing education and training on neurodiversity, both internally and in partnership with our clients, to create workplaces that are genuinely inclusive. We offer flexible work arrangements, individualised adjustments, and a strong support system for, ensuring that employees have access to the resources they need to thrive. Our focus on lived experience means that our initiatives are informed by real-world insights, ensuring they are practical, impactful, and responsive to the diverse needs of our people.
Nicole will be speaking in Sydney at the Wellbeing at Work Summit Australia which takes place live and in-person in Sydney and Melbourne. Further details on the Summit can be found here.
