Society is becoming more inclusive, with greater awareness of diversity and different ways of thinking. However, neurodivergent people remain significantly under-represented in the workforce. While around 11% of Australians in the workplace identify as neurodiverse, employment outcomes remain uneven. For example, around 31% of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder are unemployed. This compares to approximately 4% of the general population.
These figures highlight a disconnect between inclusion efforts and real employment opportunities. This is particularly important given the valuable skills neurodiverse individuals can bring to organisations. From strong attention to detail to innovative problem-solving, neurodiverse employees can make meaningful contributions across a wide range of roles.
So, what is neurodiversity — and what are the benefits of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace?
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in how people’s brains process information. These differences can influence how individuals think, learn, communicate and work.
Neurodiversity includes a range of neurological differences, such as:
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Dyslexia
• Dyspraxia
• Tourette’s syndrome
Benefits of neurodiversity in the workplace
Enhanced attention to detail
Many neurodiverse people have unique ways of processing information. This can include periods of hyperfocus — an intense level of concentration on specific tasks for extended periods of time.
As a result, neurodivergent employees may excel in roles that require accuracy, pattern recognition and sustained focus. Some research suggests that teams that include neurodivergent professionals can be significantly enhance workplace productivity. In some settings, improvements of up to 30% have been reported.
Improved creativity and problem solving
Neurodivergent people often bring unique strengths to the workplace when it comes to problem-solving. Their different ways of thinking can help them approach challenges from new angles and consider solutions that others may overlook.
Increased innovation
Having people who think differently in the workplace helps to drive innovation. Neurodiverse people’s unique ways of thinking can enable them to question established norms, identify unconscious biases and offer alternative viewpoints that lead to new ideas and improved ways of working.
Improved team culture
Fostering a workplace that is inclusive of neurodiversity can help strengthen workplace culture. When people feel safe and supported to be themselves, trust and respect grow, leading to more positive working relationships. Importantly, inclusive practices benefit not only neurodivergent employees but the entire team. This contributes to higher job satisfaction and improved loyalty and retention across the workplace.
Enhanced retention and loyalty
Many neurodiverse employees are known for their strong loyalty to employers who provide inclusive and supportive workplaces. Organisations that invest in neurodiversity initiatives often report higher retention rates, with some programs achieving retention levels of over 90%, particularly beyond the first year of employment.
Understanding neurodiversity — and the strengths it brings — is becoming increasingly important in today’s workplaces. Adopting inclusive practices doesn’t just benefit individuals, but businesses as well. However, finding an employer that values inclusion and knowing how to present your skills in a way that highlights your unique strengths can make all the difference when it comes to career progression. Professional career support can help ensure your experience, capabilities and potential are clearly communicated to employers.
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Article References
Autism SA (29 October 2025) ‘What employers gain from neurodiversity’, Autism SA, accessed 8 January 2026.
Workskil Australia (27 June 2025) ‘The Employer’s Guide to Neurodiversity Part 1: Benefits of a Neurodiverse Workforce’, Workskil Australia, accessed 8 January 2026.