Here’s some good news for TV that makes a real difference: ABC’s “The Assembly,” a factual series putting autistic journalism students front and centre, just won the Screen Diversity and Inclusion Network (SDIN) Award. This win came at the 23rd Annual SPA Awards, recognising Australian screen work that truly moves the needle on diversity, both in front of and behind the camera.
“The Assembly,” made by HELIUM Pictures for the ABC, gathered a group of autistic journalism students and had them interview some big names in Australia – including Sam Neill, Adam Goodes, and Delta Goodrem. The show gave these students a platform to ask questions and tell stories in their own way.
Veteran journalist Leigh Sales stepped in to mentor the students, helping them sharpen their research and interviewing skills. It’s a project that seems to have had a real impact, not just for those involved but for the wider community. The SDIN Award judges pointed out that “The Assembly” did great work empowering autistic journalists and crew members. They also noted how the series helps spread awareness and push back against old, incorrect ideas about neurodiversity.
The ripples from the show are already spreading. Macquarie University was so inspired by “The Assembly” that they created Australia’s first journalism course designed to be autism-friendly. The series itself also picked up a nomination for Best Factual Entertainment Program at the 2025 AACTA Awards, another nod to its quality and impact. In related news, the SDIN also gave a Highly Commended shout-out to “Songs Inside,” a documentary focusing on a First Nations singer-songwriter working with people in prison. “The Assembly” is based on an idea first created by Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache. The format has also seen a UK version which is currently airing on ITV1.
