SESSION 4. PAEDIATRIC REHABILITATION and BRAIN INJURY
This study provides novel insights into the lived experience and management of fatigue from the perspectives of young people with child-onset neurological conditions and their families. Findings will inform the co-design of a transdiagnostic fatigue program for paediatric rehabilitation services that is responsive to the needs and preferences of this population. By centring lived experience and adopting a transdiagnostic approach, this research has the potential to contribute to more accessible, relevant, and effective fatigue management in paediatric rehabilitation
This study employed semi-structured interviews that were conducted with young people aged 12-35 years with child onset neurodisability and/or their parents or caregivers (n = 14; young people participants CP = 4, ABI = 3; parent participants CP = 4, ABI = 3). Participants were recruited through paediatric rehabilitation services and community networks across Australia. Interviews explored participants understanding and experience of fatigue, fatigue management across contexts, support received for fatigue management and areas for improvement in fatigue management practices. Data were analysed iteratively using constructivist grounded theory principles. Interviews are still ongoing.
Preliminary findings demonstrate that participants described fatigue as a multidimensional and fluctuating experience that accumulates across the day, encompassing physical, cognitive, sensory, and emotional components. Contributing factors included cognitive load, physical activity, disrupted routines, and self-advocacy demands. Fatigue impacts participation, emotional wellbeing, and daily functioning with challenges including difficulty communicating fatigue, stigma, and masking. Participants described some fatigue management strategies; however, gaps in education, support, and access to fatigue management resources were raised.

Learning outcomes:
- Describe the impact of fatigue on quality of life and functioning in childhood onset neurological conditions.
- Describe the lived experience and perspectives of young people with neurological conditions and their caregiver in relation to how fatigue is experienced, understood, and managed.

SESSION 5. EARLY CAREER RESEARCHERS IN PAEDIATRIC NEUROPSYCHOLO
Led by emerging paediatric neuropsychologists and researchers, this interactive panel session will examine practical models for mentorship, supervision and workforce development, with particular attention to cultural responsiveness and reflexive practice within training programs. Through facilitated discussion, the session will provide concrete strategies and shared insights to support students and ECRs in building capability, confidence, and leadership within Australia's future neuropsychology workforce
Evidence-based best practice
a) Demonstrate evidence based best practice (established or emerging) by considering professional expertise and current evidence-based research. Limitations on information must be disclosed.
b) Ensure you list sources used to demonstrate evidence base. Include references less than 10 years old (unless a seminal reference), including a minimum of 5 references from peer reviewed sources.

Learning outcomes:
-Identify and critically reflect on key challenges and benefits associated with navigating a career as a clinician-researcher in paediatric neuropsychology.
-Explain how recent regulatory and competency changes are shaping training pathways for students and early career neuropsychologists in Australia.
-Evaluate mentorship and supervision models that support sustainable and culturally responsive workforce development.
-Apply principles of cultural safety and reflexive practice to professional development within paediatric neuropsychology.
-Describe how students and ECRs are uniquely positioned to be at the forefront of developing and shaping technological innovations within the paediatric neuropsychology space.

Neurodivergent children grow up to become neurodivergent adolescents, adults, and older adults. What is the role of neuropsychology in supporting the assessment and management of neurodevelopmental differences and disabilities across the lifespan? How might we strike a balance between affirming our client's strengths and adequately communicating their needs and disabilities in our reports and feedback sessions? Are there innovative ways that we can streamline or fast-track neuropsychology input for neurodevelopmental assessments, particularly within multidisciplinary teams? This panel discussion brings together a diverse group of neuropsychologists from all career stages to provide practical strategies and suggestions to address these questions. The panel will draw from their experience in public, private, and community settings and also share insights into referral models that may be applicable to a range of services.