This presentation explores current clinical practices among Australian speech pathologists when assessing swallowing function in adults with neurodevelopmental conditions. This study addresses a critical gap in the literature, highlighting the unique challenges associated with this population and how these challenges influence clinical decision-making. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research gathered data through an online survey completed by 19 speech pathologists, followed by two focus groups with six participants. Descriptive analysis was applied to survey results, and a reflexive thematic analysis was conducted for the focus groups. The study identified that a functional and individualised approach is central to swallowing assessment in this population. Observation, as a non-instrumental clinical procedure, was found to be the most commonly used tool, with formal instrumental assessments such as VFSS and FEES used less frequently due to limited accessibility and the complex needs of clients. Key barriers to effective dysphagia assessment include the Australian funding context, time constraints, and a lack of confidence among clinicians. Support staff and caregivers were found to play a critical role in the assessment process, contributing valuable insights into clients' mealtime behaviors. The study concluded that there is a need for greater representation of these complex cases in tertiary education and continued professional development opportunities to support clinicians. This presentation will discuss the study's methodology, results, and implications for clinical practice, aiming to enhance the quality of dysphagia care for adults with neurodevelopmental conditions in community settings.

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