What is Brain Injury Awareness Week and Why it Matters

Brain Injury Awareness Week in Australia 2025: Invisible Disabilities Deserve Visible Change




Dates & Theme

Brain Injury Awareness Week (BIAW) 2025 will be held from 18–24 August across Australia. This year's theme—Invisible disabilities deserve visible change—aims to bring attention to the unseen but profound impact of brain injuries and their intersections with domestic and family violence, justice systems, homelessness, and more.


Why This Theme Matters

Brain injuries often manifest in ways that aren’t outwardly visible—memory struggles, emotional regulation difficulties, impulsivity, and fatigue can go unnoticed yet profoundly shape a person's life. Without proper recognition and support, individuals may face discrimination, struggle to maintain employment or housing, and fall into cycles of social disadvantage or legal troubles.


What to Expect During the Week

  • National Activities & Events
    Synapse, BrainLink, and other community organisations are hosting a range of events—BBQs, expos, meet-ups, and information sessions—across the country to spark connection, raise awareness, and honour the resilience of the 1 in 45 Australians affected by brain injury.
  • Iconic Light-Ups
    Prominent landmarks across Australia will be illuminated in support of BIAW, a visual symbol of solidarity and awareness.
  • Adelaide Event Highlight
    On Monday, 18 August, Brain Injury SA is hosting a signature event at the Adelaide Convention Centre, themed Spotlight on TBI, Parkinson’s and Dementia. It features:
  • A keynote from Associate Professor Lyndsey Collins-Praino of the University of Adelaide, exploring traumatic brain injury’s links to Parkinson’s and dementia.
  • A presentation by Nurse Specialist Angela Sayas from The Hospital Research Foundation Parkinson’s/Stroke team.
  • This hybrid event (in-person and live-streamed) is free but requires registration.
  • Resources for Engagement
    Downloadable materials—posters, social media tiles, email signatures, banners, and communications kits—are available to help workplaces, schools, universities, and community groups join the conversation.
  • Webinars & Personal Stories
    Synapse is also offering webinars, advocacy case studies, and stories from people with lived experience. These resources are designed to educate, connect, and empower.

Inspiration in Tasmania

In Tasmania, the Brain Injury Association has launched a moving exhibition titled Reframing Recovery Through Art. Over 20 multimedia artworks by individuals with acquired brain injuries are on display—each a powerful reflection of personal resilience. One featured artist shared how rediscovering art helped reconnect with her identity after being misdiagnosed for years.


Why This Blog Matters

  • Education & Awareness: Clarify what brain injury truly looks like, challenging misconceptions and promoting empathy.
  • Advocacy & Equity: Encourage social services, justice systems, and communities to recognize invisible disabilities and make structural changes.
  • Support & Connection: Provide tools and inspiration for individuals, families, caregivers, and allies to engage meaningfully during BIAW.
  • Action-Oriented: Motivate readers to attend local events, download assets, share stories, or simply light up their social channels with the #BIAW2025 hashtag.