Update from the CEO
Dear Members,
Yesterday marked World Health Day, observed globally under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science.” The day is a timely reminder of the importance of health systems that are not only evidence-based but inclusive. For people who are blind or vision impaired, challenges such as inaccessible information, hard-to-navigate environments and limited awareness among health professionals continue to make accessing care more difficult. The day is a reminder to keep striving for health systems where everyone can access care with independence and confidence.
In other news, I had the pleasure of meeting in person with Jonathan Brookes, the new CEO of Retina Australia. Opportunities to connect face-to-face are always valuable and this was a positive step in strengthening relationships across the sector. We had a constructive discussion about organisational priorities and the importance of collaboration in advancing outcomes for people who are blind or vision impaired. I look forward to building this connection and exploring opportunities to work together in the future.
Meanwhile, our engagement in the DRCO Accessible Communications Working Group continues to progress, with a focus on strengthening collaboration with the NDIA. Recent discussions centered on advancing the accessibility checklist, shaping a practical work plan and identifying opportunities to improve accessible communication processes and resources. This work will continue to help lay out the groundwork for more consistent and meaningful improvements in accessibility across NDIA communications.
Building on our advocacy efforts, BCA has joined other members of the AFDO Consortium in supporting a joint letter led by People with Disability Australia and Inclusion Australia to the Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek, urging the removal of the Program of Support requirement from the Disability Support Pension. This requirement applies to people who have 20 points across multiple impairment tables, but not 20 points on any single table, including those with well-documented lifelong disabilities such as intellectual disability. The letter outlines how this requirement creates unnecessary barriers, delays access to income support and contributes to instability without improving employment outcomes. We support this coordinated advocacy effort and will continue engaging with the government on this issue.
Finally, a friendly reminder that our new Braille Enthusiasts Peer Connect Group, which proved very popular at its launch last month, is scheduled for next Tuesday. You’re warmly invited to join and share in the passion for Braille.
– Deb Deshayes, BCA CEO.
A reminder, you can also read this update on BCA’s website.
Policy, Advocacy & Representation
Update on new Commonwealth Individual Disability Advocacy Program – Melanie Chatfield
In January 2026, BCA took part in a public consultation process to inform the design and implementation of a new Commonwealth individual disability advocacy program.
The consultation report is now available and shows who took part, what they shared, and the issues that matter most to them. People told the government about key things to focus on in the design of the new program, including:
- supporting different types of organisations, including local and community-based support
- supporting more people to access advocacy supports and services, including raising awareness
- ensuring services are accessible to people with different culture and language needs
- supporting advocates with training and funding
- planning changes carefully
The final design of the new Commonwealth individual disability advocacy program, including any future grant opportunities, is subject to decisions by government.
To view the consultation paper, visit the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.
To view BCA’s submission to the consultation visit the BCA website.
BCA Events
Plan ahead using our monthly calendar – the events calendar for April 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, 11th April 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. If we are full, or you don’t make it before 8:00pm, you are still very welcome to stay and listen on mute.
- Join via weblink
- 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
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.
Art Appreciation Group
Friday, 10th April at 11:00am AEST.
Do you enjoy discussing different styles of art, exploring critiques of art, reading writings from curators, and sharing online resources to expand your understanding of art? Then join the Art Appreciation Peer Connect Group – a space to connect, exchange ideas, and deepen your appreciation for arts in an inclusive and engaging way.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 818 6110 0639
- Passcode: 764642
Braille Enthusiasts Peer Group
Tuesday, 14th April at 7:30pm AEST.
Are you passionate about Braille or keen to build your skills? Our new Braille Enthusiasts Peer Group is a lively and supportive space for Braille users of all levels. Whether you’re a long-time user, brushing up your skills, or just starting out, this group is all about sharing tips and celebrating the power of Braille in everyday life.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 811 2369 9442
- Passcode: 471895
Around the Branches
Tasmanian Branch
Hobart Catch-Up:
You are invited to join us for a catch-up at the Central Hobart Bar and Bistro on Saturday, 18th April at 11:30am.
The Central Hobart Bar and Bistro, 73 Collins Street is right near the Collins Street taxi rank which is a few metres from the Collins Street end of the Elizabeth Street Mall. Please RSVP to Vanessa Ransley at vanessa.k.ransley@gmail.com or call 0417 387079.
We look forward to seeing as many Southern members there for lunch or a drink.
Queensland Branch
The next Queensland Branch meeting will be held on Saturday, 18th April at 3:00pm AEST. The agenda will be made available on Tuesday, 14th April. All Branch members are welcome to come along.
You can join the Zoom meeting by using the following Zoom details:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85390717366?pwd=nU4mJbkiCYCvKIaV1e2TbEISga1Czk.1
Meeting ID: 853 9071 7366
Passcode: 656344
One tap mobile
+61871501149,,85390717366# Australia
We look forward to seeing you there!
News From Outside BCA
National
Read the latest newsletter from Vision 2020 Australia
In the April 2026 update, CEO Carly Iles shares highlights from recent sector events, including the RANZCO Global Eye Health & IAPB Conference in Hobart, the National Diabetes Summit, and Macular Disease Foundation Australia’s 25th anniversary. Learn about new board appointments, upcoming forums for member CEOs, and the policy and advocacy work shaping eye health across the country.
The update also covers:
- The 2026 Barry Jones Vision Oration featuring Professor Hugh Taylor AC
- Free education modules for healthcare professionals in eye health and vision care
- Replays of key webinars like the Australian Eye & Ear Health Survey
- Major upcoming events, including the 2026 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Eye Health Conference
- Significant research and partnership announcements in the sector
Access the full update to stay informed, celebrate milestones, and explore opportunities to engage with the eye health and vision care community.
Read the Vision 2020 Australia April newsletter.
Celebrating one year of the Global Voice Podcast – World Blind Union
On Wednesday, 1st April, the World Blind Union marked one year of its Global Voice podcast!
In just twelve months, they’ve published over 20 episodes, bringing together voices from across our global community to explore the issues shaping the lives of people who are blind or partially sighted. From practical tools to global advocacy and leadership perspectives, each episode has added to a growing conversation about inclusion, rights, and opportunity.
Over the past year, three distinct series have helped define the podcast:
- Unpacking Accessibility Go! takes a focused, practical look at Accessibility Go! The digital resource developed by WBU and CBM Global, breaking down key concepts and tools to support accessibility in real-world contexts.
- On the Road to São Paulo follows the journey toward the World Blindness Summit and WBU General Assembly in Brazil, capturing the momentum, priorities, and voices leading up to this global gathering.
- Voices In Leadership features in-depth conversations with WBU’s elected leaders, offering personal insights into their paths, priorities, and perspectives on advancing our movement.
If you haven’t yet explored the podcast, now is a great time to start.
Listen to the WBU Global Voice Podcast:
Have your say! PWDA Board Director Nomination and Election Process Member Survey – People with Disability Australia (PWDA)
PWDA has begun reviewing the Board Director nomination and election process with the aim of making it more accessible, transparent and inclusive for members. This work will be delivered through a phased approach, with improvements introduced over time to allow for member feedback and continuous improvement. You can learn more about the PWDA Board Director Election Process Review on the PWDA website.
The PWDA Board Director nomination and election process survey is an opportunity for PWDA members to tell us how accessible, transparent and easy to understand the process is, and how we can improve information and member participation.
Your feedback will help PWDA improve the Board Director nomination and election process including how we communicate and support members to participate in future elections.
The survey will close on Monday, 13th April 2026 at 5:00pm AEST.
Paid Internships: Apply Now – Accessible Arts
Applications are now open for the 2026 Ripple: Disability and Culturally Diverse Internship Program.
Run by Accessible Arts in partnership with Diversity Arts Australia, this paid program is open to eight applicants who identify as both culturally diverse and d/Deaf, Disabled and/or Neurodivergent.
Taking place from June to September 2026, this exciting opportunity includes an internship, 1:1 mentorship and professional development training.
Learn all about this exciting program at our Online Information Session and take the opportunity to ask any questions in our open and relaxed Q&A.
Date: Tuesday, 14th April from 5:00pm to 6:00pm.
To register for the online info session, visit the Humanitix event page.
Applications close Monday, 27th April.
Online session: Shaping Your Story for Impact – Guide Dogs NSW/ACT
You’re invited to Shaping Your Story for Impact: an introduction to storytelling for influence, a practical online session for advocacy leaders who want to learn how to share their story for impact and drive change.
This free webinar will be held on:
Tuesday, 28th April 2026.
6:00pm to 7:30pm AEST.
Online via Zoom (Zoom link to come when registered).
This session is designed to be welcoming, reflective, and low pressure.
Student Partnership on Braille Press
We are part of a project-based learning subject as a part of our degree at UNSW, Sydney called the Vertically Integrated Project – Assistive Tech Hub, where we are working to design a Braille Press that can be used and sustained in the Solomon Islands. To help us, we are grateful and eager to understand the needs of people with vision impairments firsthand so that we can empathetically incorporate appropriate user-based design considerations when creating our Braille Press.
As part of your contribution, we are just asking for your time in answering a few questions, allowing you to advocate on behalf of the children in the Solomon Islands that will be using our machine.
If you are interested or if you’d like to learn more email sidhida.behera@student.unsw.edu.au or aarushi.sharma@student.unsw.edu.au or jenna.kim@student.unsw.edu.au.
Victoria
Voluntary Role: Board Director and Assistant Treasurer – Women with Disabilities Victoria (WDV)
Women with Disabilities Victoria (WDV) is inviting interested persons with a finance skillset to join the WDV Board.
The WDV Board of Directors is the voice of our members. The Board’s job is to set the strategic direction of, and govern, the organisation. Our work includes advocacy, representation, and implementing projects. We also raise awareness, through workforce training, about issues facing women and gender diverse people with different kinds of disability across Victoria. We seek to advance intersectional gender equity and invite women, nonbinary and gender diverse people to apply.
For more information and to apply, visit the WDV website.
Applications will close on Sunday, 12th April.
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.