Important information about the future of Deaf Australia Inc. View this email in your browser Dear Members and Friends of Deaf Australia

As you may be aware, the current Commonwealth Government has changed the funding regime governing the way disability organisations are funded. Deaf Australia has received ongoing national peak funding from Commonwealth Government since 1992. We have just been informed by the Government that this funding will cease on 28 February 2015.



Over the years, Deaf Australia (formerly the Australian Association of the Deaf), has lobbied for improvements and access to a wide range of services, and has been part of instigating significant initiatives, such as the National Relay Service, National Auslan Booking and Payments Service (NABS), and captioning standards being legislated in the Broadcasting Services Act. We also lobbied for employment funds that saw deaf people get access to interpreting, and employment services having access to Deaf awareness and Auslan training, amongst other things.



There is still significant work that needs to be done. We still have a long way to go to achieve access and equality in Early Intervention and Education, Employment, and access to wider communities, for example. Deaf Australia also works hard to improve public understanding and awareness of deaf people and the community, and to make sure that the wider community understands that deaf people can participate effectively in work, social, leisure, and other contexts. This is a slow process.



Unfortunately, with the complete elimination of our ongoing peak organisation funding, our role in working to achieve your rights and improve your access and ability to participate actively in the Australian community will become very difficult to maintain.



This is an extremely disappointing decision from the Commonwealth Government, that not only affects Deaf Australia, but many other disability and social services organisations across the country. Deaf Australia is concerned that these changes will mean many people who are deaf or have a disability will have no specialist representation in terms of advocacy support.



In the coming weeks, Deaf Australia will reassess its capacity and keep you informed of any developments.



We are still committed to the development of the Deaf Friendly Scheme - http://deafaustralia.org.au/the-deaf-friendly-scheme/



It is important that we continue having your support in keeping Deaf Australia going strong and continue representing Deaf Australians.



You can work with us to keep Deaf Australia viable by pledging your support through donating now at: http://www.givenow.com.au/deafaustralia



Yours faithfully,



Todd Wright

Chairperson, Deaf Australia Inc