GameSpec is a space that has been exclusively created for NDIS participants. We have made it this way so that people can come to our space and not be worried about the general public coming in.

At GameSpec, we’re passionate about creating a supportive and inclusive community, and we truly wish we could extend our services to everyone who could benefit from them.

Currently, our service is tailored to meet the needs of individuals who access funding through the NDIS, which helps us ensure the highest quality support for those who rely on it. We understand that not everyone person with Autism or other neurodivergence are eligible for the NDIS, and we wish we could do more to include everyone.

We understand that there are people who may have need for a neurodivergent-friendly space and support that do not have access to the NDIS. 

While we’re unable to provide direct services outside of our current framework, we’re always open to suggestions or partnerships that might allow us to reach more people in the future. Your feedback helps us grow, so please feel free to share any ideas via our feedback form.

We did create this space for Autistic and other Neurodivergent (ND) people. This is because of the unique challenges that the ND community face when accessing the community, socialising and making friends. 

Some people might say that we are not being inclusive by having this standard, however, ND people are often not included in many spaces in this world, which are based on Neurotypical standards. 

Autistic people do deserve a space that is created and dedicated to them. We ask that this rule is respected by non-ND people, who are more able to access similar spaces in the community.

Yes, GameSpec is essentially a Peer Support Worker Service operating in an awesome dedicated space with free activities and equipment for your use. 

We charge 1:1 ratio because we provide a Peer Support Worker to you while you are here. We operate on a bookings-only basis, so we can ensure we have the correct amount of support available in our space. 

We can also provide support to NDIS participants outside of our space, in the general community and in their home. 

GameSpec support services are aimed at people who require low levels of support or intervention to fully be involved in our free activities. 

In general, participants do need to be able to self-regulate their emotions and be able to modulate their behaviour in a group setting without constant supervision or support. Participants should be able to communicate their needs effectively. 

While we strive to accommodate individuals with diverse needs, our space may not be suitable for those who require more intensive support. 

If you have any questions about whether our service will fit you or your loved one, please get in touch.

Participants are welcome to bring their own support worker, if that is their choice, however that does not waive the requirement that participants need to have a service agreement with our Peer Support Service to access our space. 

If we did not have this policy, GameSpec would be inundated and over-run with too many participants and we could not afford to continue to operate. 

GameSpec has something for nearly everyone. 

We have multiple age groups including 10-14yr (homeschooled kids), older teens, young adults, and a sprinkling of more mature people who are young at heart and feel like they fit into our community. 

We have certain times during the week where more teens attend, like after school and on Saturdays. Please check with us if you want to know more.

We also provide a dedicated time on Tuesdays for younger children who are not attending mainstream school. In this group, the age range is approximately 10-14 years. This session currently runs between 12pm - 4pm.

GameSpec has so much to offer! 

PC gaming set-ups with height adjustable tables, a racing simulator, a comfy chill zone where you can watch movies or play Nintendo Switch, space for board gaming and Lego, and a 3D printing station. We have PlayStation and XBox controllers available for people who don't use keyboards to game.

We provide extras to ensure your time at GameSpec is fun and relaxing, including light snacks, cold drinks and tea and coffee.

GameSpec also features a unique Sensory Calming Zone. This is a totally separate quiet area for people who just need a break from the larger environment. 

Various Activities: Arts and crafts, Lego building, D&D & tabletop boardgaming, crochet & knitting, etc. 

Whilst having fun is our main goal here at GameSpec, we do have rules of engagement so that everyone in the space: 

1. Respect Others: Treat fellow participants, staff, and visitors with respect and courtesy at all times. Avoid disruptive or offensive behavior.

2. No Harassment: Harassment, discrimination, or bullying of any kind will not be tolerated. This includes verbal, physical, or online harassment.

3. Follow Staff Instructions: Follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the staff members. Instructions and guidelines exist to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

4. Keep Noise Levels Reasonable: Maintain a reasonable noise level to avoid disturbing other people. Use headphones for audio where necessary.

5. Respect Equipment: Treat all equipment, accessories and furniture with care. Report any issues or damage to the staff immediately.

6. No Cheating or Hacking: Play games fairly and avoid cheating, hacking, or exploiting glitches. Respect the rules of fair play.

7. Cleanliness: Keep the gaming area clean and tidy. Dispose of rubbish in designated bins and report any spills or messes to the staff as soon as they happen.

8. No Illegal Activities: Do not engage in any illegal activities or behaviours on the premises. 

9. Age Restrictions: Adhere to any age restrictions or guidelines for specific games or activities.

10. Personal Belongings: Take care of your personal belongings and do not leave valuables unattended. GameSpec will not be responsible for lost or stolen items.

11. No Gambling: Gambling or wagering of any kind is prohibited on the premises.

12. Feedback and Suggestions: Provide constructive feedback and suggestions to the staff for improving the gaming experience. Share your ideas in a respectful manner.

13. Social Distancing and Safety: Follow any social distancing guidelines and safety measures, especially during times of public health concern. Please do not come to Gamespec if you are experiencing sickness or symptoms associated with sickness.

14. Online Purchases: At no point in time should any online purchases be made through GameSpec, including downloadable content or any game store purchases. Any purchases made will result in the participant being invoiced to reimburse GameSpec for the expense.

16. Enjoyment and Fun: Above all, enjoy your time at GameSpec and contribute to a positive and welcoming gaming community.

Speak to one our lovely team who are always happy to help. Call us on 0424 806 146.

You can also fill in our sign up form and we can send you more information via email or text, if phone calls are not your preference.

If you are wanting to sign up on behalf of a loved one or someone that you support, you can also use our referral form.

Please note that an NDIS Plan is required to access services from GameSpec.

GameSpec hosts seasonal events and activities of all varieties, gaming-related, nerd-related, and just plain fun-related! 

Some events and activities we have organised up until now include movie nights, game based trivia, Dungeons and Dragons one shot events,  Halloween activities, in-house competitions and excursions to places of interest, such as the BrisBricks Lego Expo. 

We are always looking for more ways to give our participants opportunities to build friendships and social skills.

GameSpec is not an ‘activity’. GameSpec is a service provider that provides a space with free activities that are exclusively available to NDIS Participants who use our Peer Support Workers. Essentially, the cost of attending GameSpec is for Peer Support. The use of our equipment and participation in activities are not a part of the cost. 

We developed this amazing facility from our hearts, upon recognition that Autistic and other ND people deserve a safe space to receive support. Many Autistic and ND people do not want to access the community or socialise by going to busy, bustling shopping centres or coffee shops – that is why we have provided a sensory-friendly and understanding place that welcomes and caters to the needs of Autistic and ND people.

During peak times, you will find up to 20 people in the space, which includes our Peer Support Workers. 

There may be extra individuals in the room, made up of parents, carers, independent support workers and people who are enjoying their free trial in the space. 

If you want to come at a quieter time, please call us to ask about times where there will be less people in the space. Generally, the quieter times are between 10am-12pm.

Unfortunately, we do not. We can only provide in-person support.

Yes, you can stay. Some parents bring a book, or work on their laptop at one of our tables. Others parents spend their time across the road at a coffee shop in the Greenslopes Mall. You are welcome to leave your child with us, if you would rather not stay.

Generally, we have space to accept new participants to our service, however different days and times are more popular than others and there may be a short wait. 

Some activities, such as Dungeons & Dragons do have a waitlist. Please enquire to find out about our upcoming campaigns or One-Shot games.

You do not need a regular reoccurring booking, however, due to the popularity of our services, we recommend that you make a regular reoccurring booking. 

In addition, if your goal is to make friends, the more regularly you come to GameSpec, the more chance you have of getting your social relationships to grow. 

We try our best to keep our opening hours up to date on Google. We also usually open on public holidays and charge normal weekday rates, so we don’t interrupt participants’ routines. Currently, our opening hours are:

Monday: 

Dungeons & Dragons group only. Closed for other services.

Tuesday:

12pm – 4pm (Young Home Schoolers Only)

Wednesday: 10am – 6pm

Thursday: 10am – 6pm

Friday: 10am – 8pm 

Saturday: 10am – 5pm

Sunday: Closed