Information & Support External to M&H

Information, Advocacy & Helplines

Introduction

While Minds & Hearts is a private clinic offering experienced assessment and therapy by appointment, we understand that individuals and families sometimes need immediate, free, or accessible support — whether between sessions or before engaging with clinical services.

Below you’ll find a carefully curated list of organisations that provide helplines, online resources, educational workshops, and advocacy. These services are especially helpful for those navigating neurodivergence, learning differences, mental health challenges, or trauma — offering trusted support at times when you need it most.

Please note: Minds & Hearts does not provide crisis or emergency services.
If you or someone you care for is in distress, please visit our Emergencies & Crises page for a list of 24/7 support services:
https://mindsandhearts.net/emergencies-and-crises/

– Information & Support for Autism
– Social Inclusion for Autistic Adults and Children
– Support Navigating the NDIS
– Information & Support for ADHD
– Information & Support for Specific Learning Conditions
– Information & Support for Language Conditions
– Information & Support for Developmental Delays & Intellectual Disability
– Information & Support for Psychological Trauma (PTSD & Complex PTSD)

Information about Autism

Autism Queensland
Queensland’s peak autism body offering webinars, information, family support, and school advisory services.
Phone: (07) 3273 0000
Website: https://autismqld.com.au
Autism Awareness Australia
A national non-profit providing practical tools for navigating diagnosis, NDIS, school supports, and family well-being.
Website: https://www.autismawareness.com.au/resources
Amaze – Autism Education & Support Resources (Victoria)
Based in Victoria, Amaze provides a wide range of practical, easy-to-understand handouts, fact sheets, and guides about autism for parents, carers, educators, and the broader community. Topics include diagnosis, communication, sensory profiles, and navigating systems like school or the NDIS. They also offer the Autism Connect helpline and a directory of local support groups.
Website: https://www.amaze.org.au/about-autism/
Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect, NSW)
Based in NSW, Aspect is one of Australia’s largest autism-specific service providers. Their website offers a wealth of clear, practical information about autism, including early signs, neurodiversity-affirming approaches, and tips for families, educators, and the public. While their direct services are NSW-based, their online resources are nationally accessible.
Website: https://www.aspect.org.au/about-autism/what-is-autism

Autism Advisory & Support Service (AASS)
Offers parent groups, community events, and advice on accessing support

Social Groups for Autistic People

For autistic girls and women – Yellow Ladybugs Foundation
A non-profit supporting autistic girls, women, and gender-diverse individuals through advocacy, lived-experience leadership, and inclusive education.
Website: https://www.yellowladybugs.com.au
For young autistic adults – Chill – Autism Support Hub
A welcoming space in West End offering inclusive community events, peer-led social groups and social skills for autistic adults.
Website: https://www.chill.org.au
Minds at Play – Safe Online Gaming for Social Connection
Minds at Play offers structured, neurodivergent-friendly online programs using Minecraft and Dungeons & Dragons to build social confidence, teamwork, and communication skills. With experienced Game Masters and a moderated, private Discord server, their programs were developed to protect young autistic people from online grooming while accessing social connection. They aim to provide a safe and inclusive environment for autistic children and teens to connect and thrive. Programs are NDIS-friendly and run nationally online.
Website: https://mindsatplay.com.au
The Lab – Technology Clubs for Autistic Youth
The Lab is a not-for-profit network of technology clubs for young people aged 10–18 on the autism spectrum who enjoy working with computers and gaming. Participants are paired with tech-savvy mentors in a safe, inclusive environment to explore interests like coding, digital design, Minecraft, and tabletop games. The Lab offers both in-person sessions across Australia and online programs, helping participants build social confidence, friendships, and digital skills. Many families use NDIS funding to access sessions.
Website: https://thelab.org.au
GameSpec – Inclusive Gaming & Social Space (Brisbane)

GameSpec is an NDIS-registered social support provider based in Greenslopes, Brisbane, offering a dedicated, sensory-friendly environment for autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Their services include one-on-one peer support and group sessions centered around various gaming activities, such as PC gaming, tabletop RPGs (like Dungeons & Dragons), board games, LEGO, and creative sessions. The space is designed to be calm and inclusive, allowing participants to engage socially at their own pace. GameSpec also hosts regular events and provides a chill-out zone for relaxation. Programs are NDIS-friendly and tailored to support social participation and personal growth.
Website: https://www.gamespec.com.au

Support Navigating the NDIS

Understanding and accessing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel overwhelming, especially when supporting a neurodivergent child or family member. The resources below offer clear and reliable guidance to help you get started, plan effectively, and access the right supports.

NDIS National Contact Centre
Phone: 1800 800 110
Available Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm
Website: https://www.ndis.gov.au
Find Your Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
Use this tool to locate your local NDIS partner who can help you access and navigate the scheme:
Website: https://www.ndis.gov.au/contact/locations
Raising Children Network – NDIS Guide for Families
Offers accessible, step-by-step guidance on NDIS eligibility, planning, supports, and preparation. Ideal for families and carers of autistic children or children with developmental delay or disability.
Website: https://raisingchildren.net.au/disability/ndis
Carers Queensland – NDIS Local Area Coordination Partner
The official NDIS LAC Partner for many regions across Queensland. Carers Queensland assists individuals with disability and their families to:
- Apply for the NDIS
- Develop and implement NDIS plans
- Connect with community services

Access inclusive and culturally responsive support
Website: https://carersqld.com.au/ndis/

Information & Support for ADHD

ADHD Foundation Australia
Offers a national helpline, downloadable resources, advocacy support, and professional education.
Phone: 1300 39 39 19
Website: https://adhdfoundation.org.au
ADHD Support Australia
Provides online talks, parenting workshops, and social skills training recommendations.
Website: https://www.adhdsupportaustralia.com.au

Information & Support for Specific Learning Conditions

SPELD Queensland
Support for dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and other learning differences. Advisory phone line, resource library, and training.
Phone: (07) 3391 7900
Website: https://speld.org.au
Dyslexia Australia
Offers parent resources and workshops for learning challenges including dyslexia.
Phone: 0468 337 323
Website: https://dyslexiaaustralia.com/
Australian Dyslexia Association (ADA)
Provides family education, training for professionals, and school advocacy tools.
Phone: 0410 850 185
Website: https://dyslexiaassociation.org.au/
The Dyslexia Association
Focuses on visual learning styles and peer support groups.
Website: https://dyslexia.org.au/
Reading Writing Hotline
National helpline for adults with reading and writing challenges, including dyslexia.
Phone: 1300 6 555 06
Website: https://readingwritinghotline.edu.au/

Information & Support for Language Delay

Speech Pathology Australia – Communication Rights & Advocacy
Offers resources, factsheets, and public campaigns supporting the communication rights of individuals with speech, language, and communication needs.
Website: https://www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au
AGOSCI A national advocacy organisation promoting communication rights for people with complex communication needs (including use of AAC). Provides family resources and training for inclusive communication.
Website: https://www.agosci.org.au
Raising Children Network – Language Delay and Disorders Guide
A comprehensive, easy-to-read guide for parents and carers covering different types of speech and language disorders, their causes, early signs, and available supports. This resource supports informed decision-making and helps families understand when and how to seek professional help.
Website: https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/communication-impairments

Information & Support for Global Developmental Delay & Intellectual Disability

CID – Council for Intellectual Disability (NSW-based, national reach)
Advocacy and resources supporting the rights, inclusion, and voice of people with intellectual disability.
Website: https://www.cid.org.au

Information & Support for Psychological Trauma (PTSD & Complex PTSD)

Blue Knot Foundation
National trauma support for adult survivors of childhood abuse and neglect.
Phone: 1300 657 380 (9am–5pm AEST, 7 days)
Website: https://blueknot.org.au/
Phoenix Australia – Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health
Evidence-based information and resources for PTSD and trauma recovery.
Website: https://www.phoenixaustralia.org/
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling
24/7 free counselling for veterans and their families.
Phone: 1800 011 046
Website: https://www.openarms.gov.au/

Need Help Deciding Where to Start?

If you’re unsure which service best suits your needs, we invite you to speak with one of our clinicians.
An initial session can help guide you toward the most appropriate next steps for your situation.