Join Aspect at Mardi Gras 2027

Mardi Gras 2027 is coming, and Aspect is preparing to return to the parade.

Mardi Gras is a celebration of pride, diversity and belonging, where people are welcomed and celebrated for who they are. We are  bringing together Autistic people, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, Aspect staff, students, participants, volunteers, support people and community members to march as one proud and inclusive group.

Aspect aims to create a world where Autistic people are accepted, understood and supported to express their identities, individuality and strengths. For people who are both Autistic and LGBTQIA+, visibility, safety, acceptance and belonging can be especially important.

By taking part in Mardi Gras, Aspect celebrates the many intersections within our community and advocate for environments in which everyone has the choice and freedom to be themselves.

Our 2027 theme

Authentically Autistic: Ready to Hyperbloom

Our concept for Mardi Gras 2027 is inspired by the Mardi Gras theme Hyperbloom.

A hyperbloom occurs when many individual flowers bloom together because the conditions allow them to grow. This is a powerful metaphor for Autistic flourishing.

Every flower is different, just as every Autistic person is different. People flourish in different ways, at different times and on their own terms. Autistic people are more able to flourish when environments provide safety, choice, acceptance, understanding, flexibility and practical support.

Our parade entry will tell the story of a diverse garden transforming as the world around it becomes more accepting, responsive and inclusive. Barriers begin to open, colour spreads and participants gain greater space and choice. The parade culminates in a vibrant Hyperbloom made up of unique flowers, buds, leaves and other botanical forms.

Some flowers may be fully open, while others may remain buds. Some may be bold and vivid, while others may be more subtle. Each reflects a different and equally valid way of flourishing.

Our key message is:

When the world makes space, we Hyperbloom.

This theme celebrates Autistic identity, agency, strengths, joy and authenticity. It also recognises that Autistic people should not have to change who they are to earn acceptance.

What to expect

We will have space for up to 80 participants in the 2027 parade.

Before submitting your Expression of Interest, please consider the following:

• The parade will take place on Saturday 6 March 2027.
• We will not have a vehicle that can carry parade participants so if you’d like to express your interest, please make sure you are able to participate in the physical requirements of the parade detailed in the Mardi Gras Terms and Conditions linked on the side.
• The Parade route is on Oxford Street and begins from Whitlam Square, ending at the Tibby Cotter Bridge, a total distance of 1.7 kilometres (35 minutes).
• Participants may need to remain in the marshalling area for an extended period before the parade begins.
• Participants should review the 2027 Mardi Gras participation requirements and terms and conditions before submitting an EOI.
• The deadline for submitting your Expression of Interest is Friday 27 November 2026.
• Priority participant spaces will be given to Autistic LGBTQIA+ people and their support people/workers.

For more information you can email us directly