Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy Conference Australia (NATCA) & LOAPAC Expo 2026

The Power of Community in Social Change

The Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy Conference Australia & LOAPAC Expo is back in 2026 after launching in 2025 with its first inaugural event, hosted at the Hyatt Place Event Centre in Melbourne and online. We had over 300 attendees from around the globe enjoy us in person or online for an amazing two days of learning and connection and we are so excited to connect with you all again for 2026.

This conference brings you world leading experts in the field of Neurodiversity Affirming Practice and beyond, and includes keynote and invited speaker sessions from International and National speakers, a research symposium, expert panel discussions on a range of different topics and a exhibition segment of the conference hosted by LOAPAC (The League of Autistic Psychologists and Affirming Colleagues).

The conference is organised and run by a dedicated team of neurodivergent professionals, academics and event organisers with a passion for learning, connection, and inclusion.

Keynote Speakers for 2026:

Professor Nick Walker (USA - Virtual - he/him) - What We Affirm - Clarifying the Values and Premises of Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy
Associate Professor Monique Botha (UK - they/them) - Reclaiming Humanity: Identity, State-based Violence and Neurodivergent Resistance
Khadija Gbla (they/them) - Community Care as Therapy Across the Intersections
Sonny Jane Wise (they/them) - Pathology or Protection: Depathologising BPD & NPD through the Neurodiversity Affirming Lens

Many more speakers including exciting panels and invited speaker sessions still to be announced.

There will also be a research symposium as apart of the conference with recent research developments and projects that will be shared.

Excitedly, LOAPAC will also be running a LOAPAC exhibition at the event where various different professionals and organisations can run stalls showcasing their work, handouts, materials, resources, and opportunities for further learning in different areas.

In-Person Tickets, what's included?

Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea
Access to the LOAPAC exhibition which will throughout the conference with dedicated times and during all breaks. This is a wonderful showcase of different resources, organisations, practices and more!
Opportunity for networking and connection
Dedicated sensory spaces
Access to recorded sessions through the events app for up to 6 months post conference

Virtual Registrations
If you would like to attend virtually, you can join us online.

Secure your virtual attendance tickets now and you will receive:

access to live sessions over the conference dates
ability to watch the recorded content via the events app for up to three months post-conference
ability to be able to engage with the LOAPAC exhibition online where you can connect and learn about different affirming providers, resources, and materials to upskill your practice

Please note, virtual ticket bookings must be made before the conference for post-conference access.

If you want to enquire about discounted ticket options related to disability or group booking options please email us at: connect@ndaffirmingtherapyaus.org

Contact us
Should you have any queries, please contact us via email at connect@ndaffirmingtherapyaus.org