Blind Citizens Australia

Are you aged between 18-35 and blind or vision impaired? Come be part of an inspiring community!

Join us for the Young Ambassadors Program Discord voice chat on Wednesday, 18th September at 7:00pm AEST.

This month, we’re thrilled to have Shane, an esteemed Astrophysics specialist, dive into his fascinating journey through the universe using Astro Multi-sensory and Sonification techniques.

This is a fantastic chance to connect with peers and support each other in an uplifting space.

Join the community: https://discord.gg/8pcAkUznhZ

[Image Description: Green decorated graphic with large text that reads "Young Ambassadors Program. Wednesday, 18th September. 7:00pm." below the BCA logo.]

We're Hiring! We're looking for a Project Coordinator to join our team on a full-time basis.

Are you a proactive and creative problem-solver with a passion for advocacy and accessibility? This role is perfect for someone who thrives on managing projects and making a real impact, all while working from home!

As the Project Coordinator, you’ll lead the next phase of our “Eye to the Future” project, which aims to enhance employment opportunities for people who are blind or vision impaired.

You’ll be responsible for developing and delivering initiatives that shift workplace perceptions, showcase success stories and provide valuable resources and support.

You can read the full position description and details of how to apply on our website: https://www.bca.org.au/employment/

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From Guardian Australia: ‘So demeaning’: Melbourne woman denied service by 10 cabs in one booking over guide dog

Debra Simons, who is vision impaired and relies on her guide dog Royce, was rejected by 10 taxi drivers in a single booking. Despite laws that are supposed to protect people with assistance animals, her experience highlights a troubling pattern of refusals.

Following her complaint to the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC), the response from 13Cabs was a disappointing $100 gift voucher, falling short of meaningful change.

“There’s such a sense of helplessness and anger and humiliation,” Simons says.

“And this isn’t just me … I don’t know anybody who has a guide dog who hasn’t experienced this.”

Martin Stewart, National Advocacy Officer for Blind Citizens Australia, assisted Simons during the AHRC mediation. He also raised concerns about the effectiveness of the justice process.

“The Human Rights Commission are doing what they can, it’s the constraints of the legislation that’s the issue,” Stewart says.

Read the article:

‘So demeaning’: Melbourne woman denied service by 10 cabs in one booking over guide dog Debra Simons filed complaint against 13Cabs with human rights commission, and was offered a $100 gift voucher after company argued it does not directly employ drivers

Don’t miss our September Inform session where we’ll dive into the latest updates on disability policy reforms!

This month, we're breaking down the proposed changes to Section 10 of the NDIS Act, discussing insights from the Provider and Worker Registration Taskforce, and exploring the government's response to the Disability Royal Commission (DRC).

Don’t miss this chance to stay informed and get answers to your burning questions about these crucial changes.

The session will take place on Tuesday, 3rd September from 7:30pm to 9:00pm AEST.

Register now: https://bit.ly/4dYLh1G

For more info or if you need assistance with registration, feel free to contact us at [email protected] or call 1800 033 660.

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Are you raising children in Victoria and navigating the unique challenges of being blind or vision impaired?

The state government invites you to a special roundtable discussion hosted by Lizzie Blandthorn, Minister for Children, to share your experiences and insights.

Date: Wednesday, 4th September
Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Djerring Flemington Hub, 25 Mount Alexander Road, Flemington, Victoria, 3031

Join us for a morning of meaningful conversation about:

Education Access: Your experience with early childhood education and support
Barriers & Challenges: Difficulties in accessing family and child health services
Service Improvement: How we can enhance services for families like yours

Morning tea will be provided, and children are welcome.

Interested in attending? Please RSVP by Monday 2 September using this link: https://bit.ly/DFFH_Roundtable

Let's come together to make a difference and improve the support for families in our community.

Shape the future of BCA Inform! We’re excited to invite you to our BCA Inform kicking off tonight. This is your chance to influence the direction of our future Inform sessions.

Have your say: Share your ideas and suggestions for topics that you want us to cover.

Help us: Tell us what matters most to you, whether it's specific issues or broader themes.

Be part of the change: Your feedback will help shape the content of our upcoming sessions.

Join us for this collaborative event and let your voice be heard. Together, we'll make BCA Inform even more valuable and relevant to you.

The session will run from 7:30pm to 8:30pm AEST.

Register now: https://bit.ly/3WyP0vR

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We're Hiring! We're looking for an Executive Assistant to join our team on a part-time basis.

Are you organised, an excellent communicator, able to multi-task and passionate about working with people? We want to hear from you!

This role supports our CEO to ensure the smooth operation of BCA, allowing management to focus on strategic priorities.

The successful candidate will be based in Victoria.

You can read the full position description and details of how to apply on our website: https://www.bca.org.au/employment/

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Your voice matters! Join the Disability Discovery Project survey before it closes on Monday, 22nd July.

The Disability Dialogue wants to hear from people with disability, families, and supporters about the assistance they have and what they wish they had. This survey is crucial for understanding why some supports are hard to find and advocating for better access to Foundational Supports, especially for those not covered by the NDIS.

What's involved? It's a short online form with questions about your experiences - completely anonymous and no personal details are required.

Your input will help shape future support services. Your feedback will be analysed and the findings will be shared at a free online event, Open Dialogue.

You can opt-in for event updates when you fill out the form.

Let's work together to ensure everyone gets the support they need!

Take part now: https://bit.ly/4bLzl1Y

[Image Description: Blue and yellow decorated graphic with large text that reads "Survey deadline extended - closes July 22! We should decide the way disability supports are designed. Have your say through the Disability Discovery Project - a research project designed and run by people with disability. Take the survey: https://disabilitydialogue.com.au/projects/ " above The Disability Dialogue logo.]

Join us tonight for a special BCA Inform session on sports and community participation!

With the Olympics just around the corner, let's celebrate and discuss how people who are blind or vision impaired are thriving in sports within our community. We are thrilled to welcome Bess Hepworth and Olivia Muller from Blind Sports Australia, as well as Tim Haggis, who will share their insights and experiences.

Discover exciting stories and insights, and explore ways to make mainstream sports more accessible for everyone.

Today's session will kick off at 7:30pm AEST.

Register now: https://bit.ly/3WmHDsv

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From ABC News: Disability organisations 'on life support' say budget cuts will force them to wind back services

BCA is one of many organisations which has recently spoken out about how funding reductions have impacted our ability to deliver crucial advocacy and support services.

Staff redundancies have also limited our capacity to comprehensively engage with the government's responses to the Disability Royal Commission and NDIS Review.

Deb Deshayes, CEO, spoke about how the funding changes have restricted the level of support we can offer to Australians who are blind or vision impaired.

"We don't want to lose anyone, we want to continue to do the level of work and advocacy and representation for all of our members that we currently do," she said.

"But I'm struggling to really understand how we can actually do that with that level of funding.

"We have to redesign our organisation and that means then limiting the level of support that we can provide to our members in the community who are blind or have a vision impairment."

Read more:

Disability organisations facing redundancies as community prepares for royal commission and NDIS changes Disability groups say federal budget funding cuts will leave them less able to support vulnerable Australians as the government rolls out widespread changes to services and supports.

Kickstart your July right by participating in our Business Connect Work!

The network is designed to ignite vibrant connections and empower dynamic exchanges of insights and knowledge among passionate business enthusiasts.

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, join us in shaping the future of this vibrant network. It's where ambition meets opportunity, creating a dynamic and empowering space for all!

The next meeting will take place on Monday, 1st July at 7:00pm AEST via Zoom.

Join us via weblink: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84727662983?pwd=eVU3V0trTzVNTzZrcW1aangyNTNNUT09
Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 847 2766 2983
Passcode: 593023

[Image Description: Decorated graphic containing text that reads "Journey to Employment Group. Monday, 1st July 7:00pm AEST. Our network is designed to foster meaningful connections and facilitate the exchange of insights and knowledge among business enthusiasts."]

As some of you may know, BCA has been forced to reorganise the staffing structure to ensure we can continue in a sustainable way.

To learn more about what this means, we're hosting a Q&A session this Thursday. During this BCA Conversations, we will explore what our reorganisation means for members and the future of BCA.

Your questions will be answered by the BCA Board, as well as Deb Deshayes, CEO, and Angela Jaeschke, General Manager Operations.

To learn more about the changes, you can access a general Q&A on our website: https://bit.ly/3VuuVGt

The session will kick off at 7:30pm AEST.

Register now: https://bit.ly/3KKCDY2

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We stand united in our commitment to rectify the funding oversight that has jeopardised the existence of 7 Disability Representative Organisations.

We look forward to working with Minister Amanda Rishworth to address this oversight and secure the necessary resources to sustain these vital organisations.

Our dedication to supporting the disability community remains unwavering, but we cannot achieve this alone.

Your support is indispensable in ensuring that our voices are not silenced. Please stand with us as we advocate for equity and inclusivity, and together, let's make a difference.

Read our joint letter to Minister Rishworth, highlighting the urgency of fair funding for Disability Representative Organisations: https://shorturl.at/7JM1V

This week is National Volunteer Week - Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering!

The theme for this year is 'Something for Everyone’, recognising the vital support millions of volunteers in Australia provide to their communities.

To acknowledge our dedicated volunteers, BCA is hosting an exclusive online event this afternoon from 4:30pm to 5:30pm AEST.

We extend a warm invitation to all BCA members, staff, and board members to join us.

Register now: https://bit.ly/3wCo7yh

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We're Hiring! We're looking for a NSW/ACT Advocacy Projects Officer to join our team on a part-time basis.

If you're passionate about advocacy and are aware of the issues faced by people who are blind or vision impaired, we want to hear from you!

This role highlights systemic advocacy issues at external committees and events, and supports BCA’s NSW/ACT State Division committee.

The successful candidate will be based in NSW.

You can read the full position description and details of how to apply on our website: https://www.bca.org.au/employment/

[Image Description: Green decorated graphic with large text that reads "We are hiring: NSW/ACT Advocacy Projects Officer" above the BCA logo.]

Don't forget to join us for tonight's BCA Inform - where we will discuss all-things employment.

Employment is paramount for people who are blind or vision impaired as it fosters awareness, empowers advocacy, and cultivates opportunities for inclusive practices in the workforce.

We will explore the crucial topic, and reflect on the journey and achievements of An Eye to the Future throughout the years. Guest speakers from diverse backgrounds will also participate in a panel discussion.

The session will start at 7:30pm AEST.

Register now: https://bit.ly/3JPR24Y

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Talking about employment is paramount for people who are blind or vision impaired as it fosters awareness, empowers advocacy, and cultivates opportunities for inclusive practices in the workforce.

Join us tomorrow for BCA Inform as we explore the crucial topic, and reflect on the journey and achievements of An Eye to the Future throughout the years.

We'll also be joined by guest speakers from diverse backgrounds who will participate in a panel discussion. This session offers plenty of opportunities for you to ask questions and contribute your valuable insights.

The session will start at 7:30pm AEST.

Register now: https://bit.ly/3JPR24Y

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Join us on Thursday night, when we will be hosting a consultation on Higher Education in Australia. We will focus on the implications of the Disability Royal Commission and delve into your experiences and insights regarding higher education.

Your contributions will play a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive future for higher education for people who are blind or vision impaired.

We will also discuss the recent Australian Universities Accord. Your perspectives are invaluable to us at BCA.

The session will kick off at 7:30pm AEST.

Register now: bit.ly/3JGZOls

If you require any assistance with registering for this event, please contact us at [email protected] or call 1800 033 660.

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We’re excited to announce that BCA is launching a new Peer Connect Group: Crafty Creations!

Get ready to unleash your imagination as you explore a world of crafting wonders, from intricate DIY projects that will ignite your artistic spirit to delicious cooking recipes that will expand your tastebuds.

Join "Crafty Blind Girl Donna" and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for crafting and cooking.

The first meeting will occur on Monday, 13th May at 7:00pm AEST.

A link to join the session will be shared on Facebook closer to the date.

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Join us tonight to share your experiences and opinions on specialised/segregated schooling!

The Royal Commission report includes two alternative approaches to the future of specialised/segregated schooling. One suggests a gradual phase-out of segregated education by 2051, aiming for inclusive schooling practices. The alternative proposes maintaining some role for special schools while encouraging proximity to mainstream schools and fostering partnerships for joint activities.

Tonight's event aims to gather your experiences and opinions on specialised/segregated schooling, and how we can encourage more inclusive education. The session will kick off at 7:30pm AEST.

Register now: https://bit.ly/4b002jq

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Join us for tomorrow's special edition of the Journey to Employment Group, where Garry will interview BCA CEO Deb Deshayes about her remarkable journey to professional success.

Whether you're a recent graduate embarking on your career journey or a professional looking to pivot, this group supports your endeavors.

The session will kick off on Tuesday, 16th April at 7:30pm AEST.

Join via weblink: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88163680961?pwd=UFh4bjdVVjVoV3cwbkN6UUwyM2ZkUT09
Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID:881 6368 0961
Passcode: 649026

[Image Description: Decorated graphic containing text that reads "Journey to Employment Group. Tuesday, 16th April at 7:30pm AEST."]

From ABC Perth: Pinjarra Resort motel refuses to allow guest to bring her seeing eye dog, despite laws prohibiting discrimination

Lynn Potter booked to stay at Pinjarra Resort in WA but was denied service after informing the motel she would travel with her dog guide.

Despite best efforts to explain that her dog guide Hector is not a pet but a service animal, they refused her booking. What ensued was months of stress trying to resolve the situation.

Potter said while she has experienced discrimination before, she's never had a refusal this extreme.

"It's just blown my mind that in this day and age, people like myself still have to go through this and people don't understand what it does to us," she said.

Martin Stewart, Blind Citizens Australia's National Advocacy Officer, said refusals such as the one she experienced are currently an "epidemic" in Australia.

"You're not just committing an unlawful act, but you are denying access to a human being who is the dog handler," he said.

Read the full article:

Lynn was refused access to a motel with a seeing eye dog, and found the law impossible to enforce It's illegal to refuse access to a person with a guide dog, but advocates say the law is "toothless" when it comes to enforcement.

Have you encountered challenges or had positive experiences while navigating services tailored for people who are blind or vision impaired? We invite you to join us and share your experience with blindness service providers in our upcoming Inform session.

Whether you've encountered hurdles or positives in dealing with blindness service providers, join BCA's Policy and Advocacy Manager Jackson Reynolds-Ryan and our National Advocacy Officer Martin Stewart, to share your experience, concerns, or frustrations.

This session will also discuss mandatory registration for NDIS providers – in line with the recommendation from the NDIS Review Final Report.

Register now: https://bit.ly/3TvTd20

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This a friendly reminder that next week we'll be hosting a workshop to help you explore career options that complement your abilities and aspirations.

When: Thursday, 4th April from 10:00am to 11:00am AEDT.

Register: https://bit.ly/3vjzNFq or contact BCA on 1800 033 660.

Job hunting can be a rollercoaster ride, filled with numerous interviews, rejections and uncertainties. To get through this challenging period, adopting a positive mindset is crucial.

To understand how you can overcome any barriers that may come your way, join our workshop on Thursday, 4th April.

This session will discuss the steps to assess, identify and explore career options that complement your abilities and aspirations.

The online workshop will run from 10:00am to 11:00am AEDT.

Register now: https://bit.ly/3vjzNFq

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Join us next week for a BCA Conversations that covers all-things social media!

While there are many positive aspects to creating an online account, some platforms can be more inclusive than others. We’re curious about your experiences using platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, Discord, Mastodon and more.

Come and share your insights – we want to hear where you spend most of your time online and why.

The event will kick off on Thursday, 4th April from 7:30pm to 8:30pm AEDT.

Register now: https://bit.ly/497XK0k

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Job hunting can be a rollercoaster ride, filled with numerous interviews, rejections and uncertainties. To get through this challenging period, adopting a positive mindset is crucial.

To understand how you can overcome any barriers that may come your way, join our workshop on Thursday, 4th April.

This session will discuss the steps to assess, identify and explore career options that complement your abilities and aspirations.

The online workshop will run from 10:00am to 11:00am AEDT.

Register now: https://bit.ly/3vjzNFq

[Image description: Decorated purple and white graphic containing the BCA and Eye to the Future logos and text that summarises the information above.]

Don't forget you can connect with us in tonight's Journey to Employment Group!

Join Garry for a discussion that unwraps the main obstacles encountered by individuals who are blind or vision impaired on their path to employment.

This group session offers an opportunity to share your experiences and perspectives, and to hear from others who have encountered similar challenges along their journey.

The session will kick off tonight at 7:30pm AEDT.

Join via weblink: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88163680961?pwd=UFh4bjdVVjVoV3cwbkN6UUwyM2ZkUT09
Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID:881 6368 0961
Passcode: 649026

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Don't forget to join us for tonight's BCA Inform, which will focus on all things digital inclusion!

With several local banks, post offices, and other in-person businesses closing their doors across Australia, it is more important than ever for people who are blind or vision impaired to be digitally included.

BCA's National Policy Officer Corey Crawford and special guest Lauren Henley from the Australian Federation of Disability Organisations (AFDO) will run the session, giving you a chance to voice your concerns.

The session will kick off at 7:30pm AEDT.

Register via the following link: https://bit.ly/4bHxbl5

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