Australian of the Year, Geoffrey Smith, is transforming the professional landscape for over 150 neurodivergent Australians through his groundbreaking work in Fortitude Valley.
As the co-founder of Australian Spatial Analytics, Mr Smith is driving a workplace diversity revolution, setting a new standard for inclusion and empowerment in the technology industry.
From Data to Diversity: Mr Smith’s Early Career
Mr Smith began his career as a data analyst at Shell Queensland Gas Company (QGC), where he worked in Central Business Services and later in the Health, Safety, Security, and Environment departments. During this time, he developed a deep understanding of operational challenges, setting the stage for his future focus on inclusion and social impact.
His transition into social entrepreneurship gained momentum at BUSY At Work, where he managed disability employment and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) programs, laying the groundwork for his later achievements.
Building Australian Spatial Analytics in Fortitude Valley
In 2020, Mr Smith co-founded Australian Spatial Analytics (ASA), headquartered in Fortitude Valley. ASA’s mission is to create professional roles for neurodivergent individuals, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Under Mr Smith’s leadership, the organisation employs a workforce that is more than 80% neurodivergent and has provided over 150 career opportunities since its inception.
ASA has expanded its reach beyond Fortitude Valley, opening additional offices in Melbourne and Cairns. The organisation also contributes over $7 million annually to the Australian economy, showcasing its dual focus on social impact and economic growth.
Recognising a Leader in Inclusion
Mr Smith’s dedication to fostering inclusivity has earned him numerous accolades, including the Social Impact Leadership Australia (SILA) award, Westpac Social Change Fellowship, Snow Foundation Social Entrepreneur Fellow, and the 2022 AMP Tomorrow Maker recognition.
These awards underline his ongoing efforts to redefine diversity in the tech industry.
Empowerment Through Tailored Support
At ASA, the focus extends beyond employment to empowerment. The organisation provides tailored workplace supports for executive functioning, social interactions, and sensory sensitivities, addressing the unique needs of its neurodivergent staff.
This approach has set a benchmark for inclusive practices in professional environments.
The Community’s Response to Smith’s Achievements
The announcement of Mr Smith as Australian of the Year 2025 has been met with widespread support in Fortitude Valley. Local leaders and industry peers have praised his efforts, noting how ASA’s model promotes both innovation and diversity within the tech sector.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Mr Smith hopes to grow the ASA’s impact by hiring 1,000 neurodivergent people by 2030. This ambitious goal addresses the tech industry’s skills gap while also advocating for a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
The recognition of Mr Smith as Australian of the Year highlights the importance of his work and Fortitude Valley’s role as a hub for innovation and social progress. His efforts promise continued advancements in workplace diversity, with far-reaching implications for communities across Australia.
Published 10-Jan-2025