Strategic Self-Advocacy — Communication Matters
Communication Matters celebrates communication difference as a creative method. It is a community arts and cultural development project that works with non-speaking and low-verbal people who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to create, author and publish their own cultural work.
Auslan interpretation and alternative formats available on request. Tell us how we can support you when you register.
About the project
Communication Matters uses adapted creative methods so people who communicate without speech can lead, author and publish their cultural work. Instead of fitting people into existing ways of making art, the project reshapes how art is made so communication difference guides the process.
- Creative activities adapted to each person’s pace and preferred communication system.
- Tools and workflows that let people author work even when typing or speaking aren’t primary options.
- Support for publishing and sharing finished work so authors are seen and credited.
Artists and leadership
The project is led by EduLinked, specialists in inclusive communication, adult learning and ethical community practice. Our facilitators are experienced practitioners who work together with non-speaking artists as collaborators — not as subjects.
Facilitators listen, adapt creative tools, and design activities that honour each person’s way of communicating. The aim is to create safe, joyful spaces where ideas can be expressed and shared.
How it works
Communication Matters runs short creative programs, studio sessions and community showcases. Each program is adapted to the people involved — facilitators co-design activities with participants and provide the technical and publishing supports needed to make work public.
A simple outline
- Connect: we meet participants, families and local partners and learn about communication preferences.
- Create: studio sessions adapt tools and methods so ideas can emerge at any pace.
- Author: participants shape and approve the final pieces in ways that honour their authorship.
- Share: work is published, exhibited or shared in community events with accessibility supports.
Why this matters
Communication confidence affects access to education, work and community life. Many existing creative programs assume speech, speed or certain literacy skills — assumptions that exclude talented people who communicate differently.
Communication Matters opens new pathways: people can make and share cultural work on their own terms, and communities see communication difference as a creative strength.
Artistic approach and values
Our work recognises that communicating without speech is not a limitation on creativity — it is a different creative language. We design processes that value time, consent, sensory modes and the many ways people express themselves.
Central values: authorship, consent, dignity and collaboration. These guide how we make choices about tools, timelines and public sharing.
Get involved
There are many ways to take part: as a participant, family member, creative collaborator, local host, or volunteer. We welcome organisations who want to partner to run sessions or share work with local audiences.
Quick steps
- Register interest: use the button below so we can contact you with next steps.
- Partner: organisations can apply to host sessions — we provide facilitator guides and logistical support.
- Volunteer: help at sessions or community showcases — email us to learn more.
Frequently asked questions
The program is for people who are non-speaking or low-verbal and use AAC, and for artists, family members and organisations who want to collaborate and create inclusive cultural work.
No. We bring adapted tools and support, but if participants use a preferred AAC device or app they may bring it. We also provide simple alternatives so everyone can join.
Session length varies. Some activities are short (30–90 minutes) while creative projects may involve a series of sessions. We always plan with participants to match pace and energy.
Yes. We partner with local venues, arts organisations and community groups. Hosts provide space and local outreach; EduLinked provides facilitation and accessible resources.
If you have any questions or need support to take part, email founder@edulinked.com.au or use the Contact page. We’ll respond with accessible information and next steps.