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Member Update

Wednesday 2nd July

Dear Members,

July marks the start of JulEYE, National Eye Health Awareness Month – a time to raise awareness about eye health and the importance of early intervention in preventing avoidable vision loss.

While many in our community live with blindness or low vision, JulEYE is an opportunity to advocate for better access to eye care, highlight the importance of regular eye checks for those at risk, and support public education about common eye conditions.

A reminder, you can also read this update on BCA’s website.

What’s Coming Up at BCA?

Plan ahead using our monthly calendar – the events calendar for July is available on our website, or you can access the calendar via audio by phoning 1800 033 660 and following the prompts.

If you have any questions, or would like more information, please feel free to contact us on events@bca.org.au or call 1800 033 660.

Trivia

Saturday, 5th July at 8:00pm AEST.

Are you interested in expanding your general knowledge in an easy going and fun atmosphere? If so, join this week’s trivia for an enjoyable night of team competition.

Please be aware that, to ensure the smooth operation of the game, Trivia will be limited to 25 players. To give everyone an opportunity, the Zoom waiting room will open to admit people who sign in from 7:45pm Sydney time and closes at 8:00pm.

Peer Connect Groups

The Peer Connect groups meeting in the next week are listed below. You can also find out more about all our peer connect groups, including session times and other details on the BCA Website.

Employment Group

Monday, 7th July at 7:30pm AEST.

Are you actively seeking employment or looking to navigate the job market? Join our Employment Peer Connect Group – a supportive space where job seekers can come together to share experiences, discuss challenges, and exchange valuable tips and resources. Whether you’re job hunting, navigating interviews, or exploring career opportunities, this group offers a chance to connect with others on a similar journey.

Travel Guides

Tuesday, 8th July at 1:00pm AEST.

If you’re eager to gain invaluable insights into traveling confidently, whether it’s exploring your local surroundings or journeying to far-flung destinations both nationally and internationally, this group is your perfect travel companion. With a wealth of lived experience in traveling join Adrian Watson in discussions that will be both informative and enjoyable, arming you with the essential knowledge and tools necessary to embark on thrilling adventures.

Music Group

Wednesday, 9th July at 7:30pm AEST.

Are you passionate about music? Look no further and join the Music Group! Hosted by Jennifer Parry and open to musicians who are blind or vision impaired, of all skill levels, the group provides a welcoming space to discuss tunes, share your experiences and collaborate on creative pieces. Whether you’re an experienced performer, singer or have just recently picked up an instrument, you’re welcome to join this supportive and inspiring group.

BCA Updates

Update from the CEO

Dear members,

I’m excited to open this update with a moment of celebration: we’ve officially reached our goal of 50 BCA Backers! This milestone truly highlights the amazing community that surrounds and champions us. To everyone who has supported us on this journey, thank you. Your belief in our purpose empowers everything we do, and we’re so grateful to have you with us as we mark this special occasion.

If you’d like to become a BCA Backer and support our work into the future, you can do so via our GiveNow page or phone us on 1800 033 660.

I’m also happy to share that late last week, we received confirmation of a 12-month extension for the Eye to the Future project from the Department of Social Services, taking us through to 30 June 2026. This includes the extension of Rachael Johinke’s contract, which is great news for both the project and our broader work.

More recently, I attended a meeting led by Disability Representative Organisations that explored a number of important intersectional themes within the context of inclusive reform in the NDIS. The session began with a discussion on gender-responsive NDIS reforms and how this framework can be broadened through a more intersectional approach, presented by Women with Disability Australia. This was followed by a presentation from First Peoples Disability Network, which examined intersectionality through a First Nations lens and how this aligns with a cultural model of inclusion.

People with Disability Australia presented on intersectionality through a LGBTQIA+ lens, focusing on the importance of inclusive language and the ways it can be used as a support mechanism. The final presentation, from the National Ethnic Disability Alliance, examined intersectionality from the perspective of culturally and linguistically diverse communities, highlighting the distinct challenges and lived experiences within those contexts. Each contribution offered valuable insights and deepened the collective understanding of how intersectionality should inform both policy and practice.

I also attended a recent DRCO session, which focused on the Notice of Impairments process and how we can better support participants when more information about their impairments is needed. This was a constructive and solutions-focused discussion that will help inform future improvements.

As we approach the end of the financial year, it has been an especially busy period, but I am pleased to report that the process has been smooth and uneventful.

Exciting new resource: The An Eye to the Future E-guide is now available!

We’re proud to announce the launch of An Eye to the Future: Unlocking the potential of employing people who are blind or vision impaired – a comprehensive, step-by-step e-guide designed to support inclusive employment.

This practical resource is packed with helpful information on everything from accessible recruitment and onboarding to assistive technology and workplace adjustments.

Whether you’re an employer, a job seeker, or an advocate for inclusion, this guide is a valuable tool to help create more opportunities and break down employment barriers.

We encourage all members to explore the guide and share it with their networks. The more people who understand the value of inclusive hiring, the more change we can create together.

Access the guide on the An Eye to the Future website and follow us via Facebook.

Policy, Advocacy & Representation

Representation Update

Call for BCA Representative on aviation disability standards steering committee

The Australian Government is working with people with disability to co-design new aviation-specific disability standards. These standards will help to improve the accessibility of air travel for people with disability.  The new standards were discussed in the Government’s Aviation White Paper that was released in August 2024.

The co-design process is being led by a Steering Committee made up of representatives of disability and advocacy organisations and government. As part of the co-design process, we are holding a series of workshops with people with disability to help design what is needed for the new aviation disability standards.

Through the public consultation process to help develop the Aviation White Paper, we heard from many people and organisations about the challenges of accessing air travel. These workshops now aim to develop solutions to make flying more accessible for people with disability.

Nominating a representative to attend the co-design workshops

We want to ensure we have representation from people with lived experience of disability and an understanding of the barriers associated with air travel. BCA is calling for a representative for these workshops, to provide experience and ideas on how airlines and airports can better support the air travel experience for people with disability.

It is preferable that the representative be available for all 3 workshops.

Dates and key information about the workshops

The workshops are being planned for the following dates:

  1. Workshop 1: Journey Planning – Wednesday, 23rd July 2025, 10:00am to 4:00pm AEST. This workshop will be online.
  2. Workshop 2: Accessibility onboard the aircraft – Tuesday, 29th July 2025, 10:00am to 4:00pm AEST. This workshop will be online.
  3. Workshop 3: Accessibility through an airport – Wednesday, 6th August 2025, 10:00am to 4:00pm AEST. This workshop will be held in-person (location to be confirmed), however people will be able to attend online if they would prefer that option.

Workshop facilitation and preparation

The workshops will be facilitated by The Social Deck. Each workshop will be led by facilitators with disability. The Social Deck will liaise directly with participants to support their registration and participation in each workshop. This includes supporting preparation and accessibility needs.

Information about developing the aviation disability standards

The Aviation White Paper committed to co-designing new aviation disability standards. These will be added as a schedule to the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002, created under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. These new standards will help to uphold the rights of people with disability in air travel. They will also explain the obligations that airlines and airports have to provide equal access.

Express your interest

If you are interested in being BCA’s representative on the aviation disability standards steering committee, please send a short statement that includes your relevant experience, to bca@bca.org.au by Monday, 7th July.

Around the Branches

Casino / Richmond Valley Branch

The July meeting on Monday, 7th July at 10:00am is the AGM meeting. All members are encouraged to attend. New members are very welcome. The meeting will be in the Casino Baptist Church Hall on the corner of Canterbury and West Streets Casino. Come and enjoy a “Cuppa” before the meeting.

Free transport is available.

Phone Denise on 0448 014 682 or email deniseg.vip@outlook.com

News From Outside BCA

National

Vision Australia Seeks New Board Members

At Vision Australia we are seeking new non-executive directors who will bring expertise in one or more of the following areas:

Clinical

  • Clinical experience in optical health (e.g., ophthalmology, optometry), with broader expertise across value-based healthcare.
  • Exposure to aged care and/or disability sectors is highly regarded.
  • Experience supporting diverse client groups, including Blind and Low Vision (BLV) communities.
  • Strong governance and risk oversight capabilities relevant to clinical and client services.

Commercial

  • Broad commercial skills and strategic leadership experience.
  • Expertise in business transformation, strategic development and implementation.
  • Exposure to AI, IT innovation, or major change programs is highly regarded.
  • Sector experience in service delivery, health, aged care, disability, or community services is advantageous.
  • Experience in major project leadership and corporate governance.

Human Rights

  • Deep expertise in human rights, ideally with practical application in organisations supporting vulnerable communities.
  • Ability to support Vision Australia’s evolution toward a “belonging” strategy, embedding inclusive practices and principles.
  • Advocacy experience for diverse client groups (BLV communities preferred).

Important Considerations

  • Vision Australia’s Board values diverse skills, experience and backgrounds to foster robust decision-making.
  • Lived experience of Blindness or Low Vision (BLV) is highly desirable.
  • We welcome both highly experienced directors and emerging candidates who bring strong credentials but may be newer to board roles.
  • A strong commitment to governance excellence, client-centric leadership, and Vision Australia’s mission and values is essential.
  • Connections across government, philanthropy, and the corporate sector will be highly regarded.

Values and Culture Fit:  Alignment with Vision Australia’s mission, values and culture is critical. We seek candidates who are curious, open-minded, collaborative, and willing to constructively challenge management and peers with respect and integrity.

Board appointments at Vision Australia are voluntary.

Expressions of interest should be submitted in writing to Anne Hatton at Hattoneale (ahatton@hattoneale.com.au), outlining experience, qualifications, skills, and any other relevant information. The deadline for EOI is Friday, 4th July 2025.

Have your say on NDIS Supports Rules and Supports Lists – People with Disability Australia (PWDA)

In October 2024, the NDIA introduced the NDIS Supports rules (also known as Section 10), including NDIS Supports lists, outlining what the NDIS will and won’t fund.

The Australian Government is reviewing the NDIS Supports rules and is asking for feedback from the disability community.

Many people have said the NDIS Supports lists are too strict, confusing, or don’t work well for people with complex or overlapping disabilities.

People with Disability Australia has made a survey to ensure your voice is heard on this matter.

Complete the survey. The survey will close on Thursday, 10th July 2025.

Social access and inclusion for people with disability in leisure and recreation – Griffith University

We are looking for people with lived experience of disability aged 18-34 to complete our survey on the current social inclusion experiences, patterns, and opportunities in leisure for young people with disability.

Access the survey

If you have any questions, please contact Hannah Simmonds at h.simmonds@griffith.edu.au

New South Wales

Audio Described Show “The Twits” – Sydney Opera House

Tuesday, 8th July at 10:30am AEST.

Roald Dahl’s gruesome twosome The Twits return to our stage these school holidays to delight and disgust in equal measure. Unmissable fun for all the family packed with Dahlicious mischief, hilarious mayhem and big belly laughs!

Book online now.

For more information on Sydney Opera House shows call +61 2 9250 7777 or email bookings@sydneyoperahouse.com.

2025 Central Darling Shire Local Government election – Braille ballot paper applications are open from Monday, 7th July 2025 until Monday, 11th August 2025

The Central Darling Shire Local Government election will be held on Saturday, 20th September 2025.

Blind and low vision electors are eligible to vote by post, telephone assisted voting or request Braille ballot papers.

Electors who wish to vote using Braille can apply by either:

Braille ballot papers can be posted to a voter’s address or alternative address. They can also be delivered to a voting centre within your council area.

Applicants for Braille ballot papers will be asked to include the following information:

  • If voting by post, the postal address the ballot paper will be sent to
  • If voting in person, which early voting centre or voting centre the ballot paper should be delivered to
  • contact details
  • If voting by post, the postal vote certificate must be signed by the elector and a witness on or before election day (by 6:00pm Saturday, 20th September 2025) and then returned to the NSW Electoral Commission by 6:00pm on Friday, 10th October 2025.

For further information about this election please visit elections.nsw.gov.au or call 1300 135 736.

Queensland

July 2025 FREE ‘Come & Try’ Disabled Golf Clinics – Empower Golf Australia

We are excited to invite the disabled community to attend our upcoming FREE July “Come & Try Golf Clinics”. No prior experience in Golf is needed – just come along and give it a try! On the Gold Coast we offer two convenient locations:

Topgolf - First Tuesday of each month from 10:00am to 12:00pm, the next clinic is on Tuesday, 1st July 2025. Topgolf is an all-weather venue so this clinic goes ahead even if raining.

Lakelands Golf Club at Merrimac – Third Tuesday of the month, therefore, the next clinic is on Tuesday, 15th July 2025 between 10:00am and 12:00pm. Please note dress regulations apply to this clinic as Lakelands is a private golf course.

These clinics are open to anyone living with a disability and are run by accredited specialised coaches who provide expert advice and guidance.

Bookings are essential, to learn more and to book visit the Empower Golf Australia website.

Support our work

By donating to BCA, you contribute to important programs and services that empower our community. Every dollar goes a long way in helping us achieve our purpose and enhancing the lives of those we serve.

Donate to BCA

Supporter Highlights: Sharing heartfelt messages from our generous donors, highlighting why they support BCA and how they’d like their contributions to make a difference.

“Thank you for the incredible work you do to support and empower the blind and low vision community. It’s inspiring, and I’m grateful to contribute in a small way.”

Have you got something to contribute?

If you have something you would like included in the Member Update, please send it to memberupdate@bca.org.au or call us on 1800 033 660. Items received by 12:00pm Monday will be considered for publishing in the Wednesday update.

Blind Citizens Australia

Email: bca@bca.org.au

Website: www.bca.org.au

ABN: 90 006 985 226

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