Welcome to our inaugural Member Update of 2026! We hope you enjoyed a restful holiday and are feeling recharged. The BCA team is back in action and eager to tackle new objectives for the year ahead. We wish our entire community a prosperous and fulfilling 2026, and we look forward to reaching new milestones together.
Over the holiday period, to mark World Braille Day on Sunday 4th January, Amila Dedovic, BCA Communications Coordinator, produced a special video interview with member Kristy Stichter. Kristy’s story exemplifies why Braille literacy is essential for accessibility, learning and community. You can watch the interview on YouTube.
A reminder, you can also read this update on BCA’s website.
BCA Events
Plan ahead using our monthly calendar – the events calendar for January 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.
BCA Inform – My Aged Care Reform
Tuesday, 3rd February from 7:30pm to 9:00pm AEDT.
Join us for a BCA Inform session exploring the latest Australian aged care reforms, with a particular focus on what they mean for older Australians who are blind or vision impaired. The session will include an update on the new Aged Care Act and the Support at Home Program, and what these changes may mean in practice.
To register for the event please visit the Humanitix website.
In preparation for upcoming Inform sessions, we would like to understand what percentage of our members are on the NDIS and what percentage are using My Aged Care. We have created a short anonymous survey to capture this information, and we’d appreciate your input. To complete the survey, visit the link: https://form.jotform.com/260107572129857
If you have any questions or require assistance, contact us at events@bca.org.au or call 1800 033 660.
Trivia
Saturday, 17th January at 8:00pm AEDT.
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.
Note the Zoom joining information has been refreshed for this year, so please see below for the new details:
- Join with one tap mobile (via non-iOS)
- Join with one tap mobile using the number below (via iOS):
+61280156011,,84491693225#,,,,*424050# - Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 844 9169 3225
- Passcode: 424050
BCA Updates
Update from the CEO
Dear members,
Welcome back to what will be another big year at BCA! We hope you all had a restful and enjoyable break and are ready for an impactful year ahead. We are starting the year with some fantastic updates regarding our team, our sector, and our future projects.
We are thrilled to kick off the year with a significant success for BCA. Our project, ‘Pathways to Independence – Lifetime Empowerment for Australians who are blind or vision impaired,’ has successfully secured the maximum funding tier of $1.2 million through the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing. This project is part of the Reform of the Information Linkages and Capacity Building Program and is a major milestone that will allow us to deliver high-impact programs focused on empowerment and independence for our community. Initial work has already commenced on the project plan, and we will be focusing on recruitment over the coming month.
I am also excited to share that Emma Bennison has been appointed as the new CEO of Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA). Emma is well known to many of us as a long-standing BCA member, former CEO, and a passionate advocate. The relationship between the two organisations is built on a shared commitment to systemic change. While BCA provides the essential lived-experience expertise of our community, DANA provides the unifying platform for advocacy organisations across Australia, making our combined efforts even more impactful. We extend Emma a huge congratulations on her appointment.
In more wonderful news, we are delighted to share that Rachael is expecting a baby! She will be commencing her maternity leave in mid-March. As you will read further on, we are seeking Expressions of Interest to fulfil the final three months of the Eye to the Future project to ensure it remains well-supported and successful. Please join us in wishing Rachael the very best as she prepares for this exciting new chapter.
Convention 2027. Yes, you did read that right – it’s time to start planning for our next Convention! For further information on how you can get involved early, please read more under the ‘Expressions of Interest’ section of this update.
Employment Opportunity – Project Coordinator
Blind Citizens Australia (BCA) is seeking a motivated and experienced Project Coordinator to manage the continued delivery of Eye to the Future, a nationally focused project aimed at improving employment outcomes for people who are blind or vision impaired.
This full-time, fixed-term position (parental leave cover) runs from Monday, 2nd March 2026 to Friday, 26th June 2026. The role is classified at Level 5 under the SCHADS Award, reports to the General Manager Operations and has no direct reports. Flexible, work-from-home arrangements are available.
The successful candidate will be a strong self-starter with demonstrated project management experience, excellent communication skills and a sound understanding of accessibility and employment pathways for people who are blind or vision impaired. You will work autonomously to deliver project outcomes, manage reporting requirements, build partnerships and represent BCA at external events.
More details available: https://www.bca.org.au/employment/
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria to recruitment@bca.org.au.
To ensure accessibility for the recruitment team, applications must be submitted in Word format. Applications close COB Wednesday, 28th January 2026.
For more information, contact Angela Jaeschke, General Manager Operations, on 1800 033 660.
Expressions of Interest Now Open: 2027 BCA Convention Program Committee
We are officially beginning to make plans for our next in-person Convention in 2027, and we want your input! While we know it is still over 500 sleeps away, the scale and importance of this event mean we need to get started early to make it our best one yet.
To ensure that BCA Conventions continue to reflect your interests, we are forming a Program Committee. This committee will be chaired by a Board appointee and will include a diverse group of members working alongside our team of staff.
Why Your Input Matters
Looking back at last year’s convention, the feedback was a powerful reminder of why we do this. Attendees consistently highlighted the value of connecting with peers and the sense of equality and empowerment that the convention created. As our members shared:
“It was a fantastic weekend of great discussion, learning, socialising and food! Well done BCA, for planning and delivering a wonderful convention.”
“It was great to spend time with colleagues, reconnect with old friends and make new connections! Congratulations Blind Citizens Australia on 50 years and an absolutely brilliant convention!”
“A quick note to convey my sincere and hearty congratulations to all the BCA Team, Convention organisers, speakers, chairs, panellists, stream and audio techs. I thoroughly enjoyed listening over most of the weekend via the YouTube stream.”
“I watched online. And it was AWESOME!”
How you can get involved
If you would like to help shape the 2027 Convention, please read the information below. Alternatively, you can call BCA on 1800 033 660 or email ceo@bca.org.au if you have any questions.
What are the different roles?
The Program Committee (Member EOIs open): This team will focus on the “heart” of the Convention – developing the theme, selecting sessions and presenters, and planning social and recreational activities.
The Logistics Committee (Staff): Comprised of BCA staff, this team handles the budget, catering, sponsorship, venue, and registrations. Note: We are only seeking member EOIs for the Program Committee.
What does being on the committee involve?
Being part of the committee involves regular virtual meetings (starting monthly and increasing in frequency closer to the event). You may also be asked to help with research, writing, or contacting potential speakers between meetings.
What skills do I need?
We are looking for people with great communication skills, creative ideas about what members would enjoy, and a “can-do” attitude. Since meetings are held virtually, you will just need access to a computer, tablet or smartphone and a stable internet connection.
What if I haven’t been on a committee before?
That is not a problem at all! We provide a Terms of Reference (a guide on how the committee works) and ensure there is a balance of experience to guide and support one another. This is a fantastic way to gain new skills while contributing to your community.
What if I’ve never attended a Convention?
Don’t let that stop you – neither had the CEO until last year! We value fresh perspectives just as much as we value the experience of long-time attendees. Each convention has its own unique flavour, and we want a mix of both new and seasoned voices.
How to Express Your Interest
To apply for the Program Committee, please email ceo@bca.org.au by Sunday, 8th February 2026. Please include:
- Your full name.
- A few sentences on why you’d like to join and what unique perspective or skills you would bring.
- Mention if you have served on a Convention Committee previously.
Everyone who submits an EOI will be contacted by Friday, 13th February 2026.
Policy, Advocacy & Representation
Policy Update: Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities – Melanie Chatfield
On Wednesday, 17th December 2025, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted (by means of a formal vote) a resolution on the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities addressing “amplified barriers in diverse contexts”.
This resolution is a clear acknowledgement by member states of the intersectional and context specific nature of disability related exclusion and discrimination which requires specific, targeted responses to address the obstacles or barriers hindering full participation and also specific responses to address amplification of the effects of those barriers by the diverse contexts that compound or further limit the access of people with disability to goods, services, facilities and society on an equal basis with others.
This development is of importance to people who are blind or vision impaired because it explicitly recognises how disability-related barriers are amplified by context, rather than experienced in isolation – a reality that reflects lived experience of blindness.
The UN resolution’s acknowledgment of “amplified barriers in diverse contexts” validates that discrimination compounds across systems and environments, producing cumulative disadvantage and restricting equal participation in ways that generic or one-size-fits-all responses cannot address.
News From Outside BCA
National
Understanding Autosomal Dominant Optic Atrophy – Mito Foundation
Monday, 23rd February from 7:00pm to 8:30pm AEDT.
Join us for an online information session designed for people living with Autosomal Dominant Optic Atrophy (ADOA), as well as their families and carers.
You’ll hear directly from leading health professionals and researchers who are dedicated to improving diagnosis, care and treatments for ADOA – a type of mitochondrial disease (mito) that primarily affects vision.
The webinar will be followed by a live panel discussion with our expert speakers — a chance for you to ask questions and learn more about the latest developments.
For more information and to register visit the Mito website.
Geographic Atrophy Survey Request – Retina Australia
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) will consider the reimbursement application for IZERVAY (avacincaptad pegol intravitreal solution) at its upcoming March 2026 meeting.
IZERVAY is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with Geographic Atrophy (GA) secondary to Age-Related Macular Degeneration with an intact fovea and when central vision is threatened by GA lesion growth.
There is currently no viable treatment option for GA in Australia, with patients facing progressive and irreversible vision loss. The introduction of IZERVAY could make a difference to the lives of Australians with GA.
As part of the reimbursement process, PBAC invites input from patients, families, patient groups, doctors and allied health professionals to share their views on the need for treatments.
This input will be collected through a short online survey. Access the survey.
The survey is open until Wednesday, 21st January 2026.
For further information email info@retinaaustralia.com.au or call (03) 9650 5088.
Share Your Experience: Research Study for Students with Print Disability in Higher Education
You are invited to take part in a research study exploring the experiences of university and TAFE students with a print disability – including blindness, low vision, or with a print disability (such as dyslexia).
Your voice matters. By sharing your experiences, you can help us better understand how to create positive, inclusive learning environments that prepare students for study, work, and life.
What’s involved:
- Completing a short online survey (about 15 minutes)
- Option to participate in a follow-up interview to share more about your journey
If you are interested in participating in the research, please email Dr. Theresa Ruig on tsmith24@une.edu.au for more information and how to access the survey.
Australia’s Disability Strategy National Forum 2026 Travel and Attendance Funding Support Available – People with Disability Australia (PWDA)
Australia’s Disability Strategy National Forum will be on 24 and 25 February 2026 at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
PWDA is administering a funding program that will provide up to $500 to eligible individuals with disability to attend the forum.
Who can apply: People with disability, aged 18 years or older who are currently living in Australia.
Applications close on Tuesday, 20th January 2026 at 5:00pm AEDT.
People can apply in different ways.
- Completing the online application form
- Downloading and completing the Word document application form
- Calling PWDA on 1800 422 015
- Sending a video or audio recording to PWDA (email or share a link).
Access the application form and learn more about the event.
Announcing our new Round Table 2026 Conference website – Round Table Conference
A dedicated website for the 2026 Round Table on Information Access for People with Print Disabilities Conference is now live.
This new site brings all conference information into one easy-to-navigate place, including registration details, key dates, sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, volunteer information, funding support and accommodation. It’s designed to give delegates, sponsors, exhibitors and presenters a clearer and more accessible way to find what they need as planning progresses.
Explore the site: https://roundtableconference.org/
You can also subscribe on the website to receive updates as they’re released, ensuring you stay informed throughout the lead-up to the conference. Watch this space the draft program is due to be released shortly and will be added to the site as soon as it is available.
National Online Member Mingle – People with Disability Australia (PWDA)
We’re thrilled to invite all PWDA members to our first event of the year! This is a great opportunity for you to meet the PWDA Board of Directors, ask questions and connect with our national membership.
Date: Thursday, 15th January 2026 at 6:00pm AEDT.
Where: Zoom (Access link will be sent following registration)
Cost: Free
Global Braille Literacy Campaign – ICEVI & World Blind Union
The International Council for Education of People with Visual Impairment (ICEVI) and the World Blind Union (WBU) have joined forces to launch the Global Braille Literacy Campaign: More Braille: More Empowerment.
This global initiative brings together educators, professionals, families, policymakers, braille users, advocates, and partners worldwide to ensure that everyone who relies on touch to communicate can learn and use braille as a foundation for education, inclusion, and lifelong learning.
Although braille is over 200 years old, it remains essential for literacy, independence, and empowerment. Yet many people around the world still face barriers to accessing braille instruction, materials, and technology. This campaign aims to change that through collaboration, innovation, and advocacy.
Learn how the campaign is promoting braille as a lifelong literacy tool, expanding access to braille in multiple formats, supporting effective teaching, and advancing research and technology.
New opportunity as Programme Intern (Assistive Technology) – Atscale
ATscale, Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, is on a mission to transform people’s lives through assistive technology and make a global impact. ATscale is looking for a Programme Intern (Assistive Technology) to support our work to increase access to assistive products and related services in low- and middle-income countries – from country-level programs to global system-strengthening initiatives.
Read the vacancy notice and find out how to apply
Deadline for applications: Sunday, 25th January 2026.
New South Wales
A Sensory Adventure for the Whole Community
The Centre for Creativity will be transformed into a colourful, touchable and wearable play space when artist HOSSEI brings their imaginative installation to life.
Children aged 0-12, along with their friends and family, are invited to enjoy an immersive, self-led play experience where curiosity and imagination take centre stage, creating a rich sensory adventure.
The Sydney Opera House Audio Describers will be sharing in the fun, helping to make this soft, stretchy world accessible for everyone.
Date: Monday, 19th January 2026.
To register visit the Sydney Opera House website or call 02 9250 7777.
Email: bookings@sydneyoperahouse.com
Victoria
Water Awareness program for Young People with Vision Loss – Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria (BSRV)
Join the Starfish Nippers: Water Awareness for Young People with Vision Loss, an exciting program hosted by Blind Sports & Recreation Victoria and Hampton Life Saving Club and supported by Bayside City Council.
This program is designed for young people aged 4 to 17 who are blind or vision impaired.
The Starfish Nippers program is all about inclusivity and empowerment, ensuring every participant has a blast while developing vital water awareness skills. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just starting, there’s something for everyone!
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills, and have a fantastic time at the beach. Mark your calendars and get ready to make waves with us this January!
Date: Saturday, 17th January 2026.
Time: 12:00pm to 1:30pm Nippers Program, 1:30pm – 2:30pm. Afternoon tea & social catch-up.
Address: Hampton Life Saving Club, 43d Beach Road, Hampton, 3188.
BYO: Bathers, Rashi, wetsuit (if you get cold), hat, sunscreen, water bottle.
RSVP essential: Limited spaces.
Contact Rachel DeSumma to RSVP. Call 0493 105 800 or email rachel@blindsports.org.au
Tasmania
Have Your Say! – Tasmanian Disability Inclusion Plan
Consultation has opened on Tasmania’s first Disability Inclusion Plan.
The Plan is a key part of the Disability Rights, Inclusion and Safeguarding Act 2024.
The voices and ideas from people with disability, the disability sector, carers, families and the broader Tasmanian community matter.
A discussion paper titled Towards a Tasmanian Disability Inclusion Plan, provides background information and asks questions to spark ideas such as:
What does true inclusion look like to you? And what changes would help make your community more inclusive and accessible?
A survey and submissions, both written and creative, are now open. There will also be opportunities to participate in face to face and online events between now and February 2026.
By being part of this consultation, you will help shape a strong plan for an inclusive future for all Tasmanians with disability.
Find the discussion paper, in a format that suits you, and learn more about consultation activities go to the Department of Premier and Cabinet website.
For more information email disability@dpac.tas.gov.au or phone 1800 431 211.
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.
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
BCA acknowledges the traditional custodians of country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, sea, and community. We also pay our respects to them and their cultures, and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elders past, present, and future.