Neuroqueering the Australian Workplace

Neuroqueering the Australian Workplace Artist’s Statement The typical (Australian) workplace is hierarchical, heteronormative and neurotypical. It is focused on productivity and efficiency, priorities which denote specific ways of working as superior. For autistic and ADHD workers, who approach the world differently, ‘fitting in’ at work can often only be achieved with significant ‘accommodations’, appreciation of neurodiversity, and where a genuine sense belonging at work is encouraged. With around 80% of neurodivergent Australians experiencing unemployment, and studies indicating vulnerability to workplace bullying for up to 70%, this artwork depicts how hierarchies of value isolate and marginalise difference, resulting in barriers not only to attaining, but sustaining work for ‘other’ individuals. Autistic and ADHD workers offer traits and proclivities that can benefit many workplaces. Stereotypes may mark them out for rigidity, but their higher rates of gender and sexual fluidity are one example of a propensity to challenge social norms and think outside the box in ways that can benefit workplace inclusion. By involving ‘neuroqueer’ individuals in work design, we see the potential to disrupt current settings and reimagine fairer workplace settings.