When Georgia Antonio first stepped onto campus with a small group of young people from Proudly Productive, she didn’t expect it to become a weekly ritual.

“Inclusion isn’t about grand gestures,” she says. “It’s about making space and extending respect.

“Murdoch has done that in a way that’s clear, powerful, and deeply meaningful.”

It all started with a casual visit to the University’s Esports Gaming Hub.

“One of our staff was working at Murdoch Active and suggested we bring our participants along,” Georgia says.

“That simple visit turned into something much bigger.”

Proudly Productive is a local organisation dedicated to supporting young people with additional needs to build skills, confidence and independence through meaningful, community-based experiences.

“We believe in creating spaces where every individual is valued, feels safe, and is supported to thrive,” Georgia says.

Murdoch University quickly became one of those spaces.

From the Esports Hub to the group fitness room, and even the student dining areas, participants now engage with the campus in ways that go far beyond a casual visit. They’ve hosted market stalls, joined campus events and built relationships with staff and students.

“The Murdoch team welcomed us with genuine openness,” Georgia says.

“From the beginning, it was clear that this was a community that shared our values of inclusion and belonging and our NDIS participants thoroughly enjoy experiencing campus life.”

For participants like EeVince and Andrew, the weekly Community Market stall is a highlight.

They help plan, book, set up and serve, sharing their creations with customers and building confidence with every interaction. Ben, another participant, has become a familiar face at the Murdoch Gym.

“He loves saying hi to the staff—especially Lachie,” Georgia laughs.

The impact of the partnership is felt deeply by families too. They love the vibrant energy of the campus and the sense of autonomy it provides their children.

“Parents tell us how powerful it is to see their young person feeling included and confident in a university setting,” Georgia says.

“For many, Murdoch has become more than just a place they visit. It’s a place where they belong.”

That sense of belonging is what makes this partnership so special. It’s not just about access – it’s about inclusion.

“Partnerships like ours challenge stigma and build understanding,” Georgia explains.

“They show that inclusion starts with being open, approachable, and respectful.”

Murdoch students benefit too. Through everyday interactions, they gain real-life experience in inclusive values – something Georgia believes is essential for future leaders.

“These moments shape how we see each other, and they help build a more compassionate community,” Georgia says.

She is quick to credit the Murdoch Active team, especially Jamie Ball and Lachlan Holmes, for their thoughtful and practical support.

“From day one, we’ve seen how much joy and confidence these visits bring,” Jamie says.

“It’s not just about using the facilities, it’s about being part of a community that sees and values every individual.”

Watching participants grow more independent and socially connected each week has been incredibly rewarding for the team at Murdoch Active.

“Their energy and enthusiasm have become a really special part of our campus life.”

Inclusion is about showing up, listening, and making space, and the University is proud to be part of a partnership that does exactly that – quietly but powerfully.

As the partnership continues to grow, so too does the sense of pride and possibility among the young people of Proudly Productive.

“They’re not just visiting a university,” Georgia says. “They’re part of it.”

And that, she believes, is the real impact.