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Member Update

Update from the CEO

Dear Members,

Thank you to everyone who joined last night’s BCA Inform session, “Championing Your Voice: Election 2026”. Panellists Andrew Webster, Helen Freris, Ross Hurford, Elana Allan, and Tim Harte shared valuable insights into the practical realities and rewards of leadership, as well as how the Board, NSW/ACT State Division, Finance, Audit and Risk Management Committee and the National Policy Committees work together to amplify our members’ voices. The panel emphasised that effective governance relies on diverse lived experience and collaborative teamwork rather than prior board experience, highlighting the National Policy Committee as a good starting point to build governance skills. With nominations closing on 16 October, we strongly encourage any interested member to step forward and help shape BCA’s future. A link to the recording of the session will be shared in next week’s Member Update.

BCA participated in two National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) workshops as part of the Annual Pricing Review consultation process. These sessions provided a valuable opportunity to hear directly from the Agency’s Markets team about upcoming opportunities for providers, participants and the broader community to contribute to the review. During the workshops, BCA raised issues of particular importance to people who are blind or vision impaired, focusing on the impact that recent reductions in pricing for specialist vision services may have on service delivery, particularly in regional and remote areas. We highlighted concerns about the ongoing availability and sustainability of essential supports, including Orientation and Mobility services, assistive technology supports, braille instruction, dog guide training, and other specialist vision services that enable people who are blind or vision impaired to live independently and participate fully in their communities.

While the pace and scale of recent NDIS reforms can feel overwhelming, we were encouraged by the genuine willingness of Agency staff to listen to concerns and engage with stakeholder feedback. These consultations reinforced the importance of ensuring that the lived experiences of participants help shape future pricing decisions and market settings.

We strongly encourage members to take part in this consultation process. Further information on how to get involved is included later in this update. If you choose to complete the participant survey, you may wish to reflect on how changes in provider availability would affect you. For example, what would happen if your regular service provider could no longer deliver services at the level you require, reduced its service offering, or withdrew from the NDIS market altogether?

As we know, people who are blind or vision impaired represent a relatively small cohort within the Scheme. By sharing your experiences and perspectives, you can help ensure that the impact of pricing decisions on specialist vision supports is clearly understood. With your support, we can continue to amplify the voice of our community and advocate for a sustainable market that delivers the services people need, when and where they need them.

We continue to work closely with sector partners on shared advocacy priorities affecting people who are blind or vision impaired. At the recent Strategic Sector Collaboration meeting, organisations discussed ongoing concerns with NDIA accessible communications, NDIS reform, reductions in Support Coordination, and the sustainability of specialist vision services. There was strong support for a coordinated sector campaign to strengthen recognition of specialist vision rehabilitation, workforce capability and service sustainability across NDIS and aged care reform. Communications leads from participating organisations will now develop shared messaging and an implementation plan, with further work also planned around potential government roundtable engagement.

Deb Deshayes, BCA CEO.

Policy, Advocacy & Representation

Advocacy Update: An advocacy success – Martin Stewart

We recently assisted a client who wanted our advocacy support following an incident at his local furniture store, where he was asked to leave because he was accompanied by his dog guide.

Following the incident, we raised the matter with the company’s head office. Initially, the company offered an apology and a discount on a future purchase but advised that he could not return to the original store.

We then emphasised the importance of equal access and the lawful right of people accompanied by dog guides to shop where they choose without being denied!

As a result of these further discussions, the company agreed to revise its position and undertake national staff training on the rights of people accompanied by dog guides. Our client can now return to the original store that had previously excluded him and, should he choose to make a purchase, will also receive a discount.

Advocacy Update: An audio description win with the ABC – Francois Jacobs

The ABC advised us that the updates have now been released which include improved signposting on shows to indicate when audio description (AD) is available, new category lists and search filters to help users find audio described programs more easily. They also now have a redesigned video player with a dedicated audio description option for programs where AD is available.

We encourage members to try these updates and let us know whether they improve your experience. Please feel free to contact me directly on francois.jacobs@bca.org.au with any feedback, positive or negative, so we can continue to advocate for further improvements where needed.

We also encourage you to provide constructive feedback directly to the ABC to help demonstrate the strong appetite for audio description. You can submit individual feedback using their contact form.

Finally, if you have not already done so, please consider registering for the Member Connect mailing group. It is a great place to share tips about programs to watch, ask others for advice or to share accessibility hacks you have discovered for getting around screen reader barriers on ABC iview or other platforms that offer audio described content. To join, simply complete the Member Connect application form and return it to bca@bca.org.au.

More from BCA

World Sight Day, 8 October 2026

Building a More Inclusive Employment Future

Tomorrow, on World Sight Day 2026, we celebrate the skills, aspirations, and contributions of people who are blind or vision impaired, while recognising the importance of creating opportunities for everyone to participate fully in the workforce.

Blind Citizens Australia’s An Eye to the Future project, is continuing to take practical steps to support improved employment outcomes and challenge misconceptions about blindness and low vision in the workplace. Through partnerships, resources, peer support, and employer engagement, we are working towards a future where people who are blind or vision impaired can pursue meaningful employment, leadership opportunities, and career growth.

World Sight Day reminds us that talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not always. By working together, we can help remove barriers, challenge assumptions, and create workplaces where people are recognised for their skills, experience, and potential.

Thank you to the members, partners, employers, and advocates who continue to support this important and valuable project. We look forward to sharing more resources, events, and opportunities in the coming months as we continue building a more inclusive employment future which keeps an eye on the future for people who are blind or vision impaired.

Have your say on the NDIS annual pricing review for 2027-28 prices

The National Disability Insurance Agency has opened consultation on the Annual Pricing Review (APR) for 2027-28. Each year, the Agency reviews NDIS prices to determine whether changes are needed to ensure supports remain safe, high quality, efficient and financially sustainable. This year’s review is especially important, as recent legislative changes mean the Minister for Disability and the NDIS is now the statutory pricing decision maker, with the NDIA providing formal pricing advice to the Minister. The APR will form a key part of that advice.

The consultation is now open and closes on 1 November 2026. The NDIA is seeking feedback from participants, families, carers, advocacy organisations, providers and peak bodies on whether current pricing arrangements are supporting access to quality NDIS supports and services. You can contribute by completing an online survey, making a written submission, uploading a video (including Auslan), or emailing APR@ndis.gov.au. Easy Read and Auslan resources are available to support participation. Information about the consultation and ways to contribute are available on the dedicated NDIS Engage page.

This year’s APR focuses on several key areas:

  • Disability Support Worker supports, including a review of the DSW Cost Model.
  • Therapy supports, including the Therapy Pricing Review.
  • Social and Community Participation.
  • Support Coordination and Plan Management.

Members are strongly encouraged to share their experiences and perspectives directly with the NDIA. Feedback from people who are blind or vision impaired is essential because pricing settings must reflect the real costs, support needs and conditions required for safe and equitable access when blindness or vision impairment is involved. Lived experience helps the NDIA understand where current pricing does not account for blindness specific requirements such as accessible communication, additional orientation time, specialised skills for support workers, and the higher support intensity often needed in unfamiliar environments. Your input ensures these realities are visible in the review and properly considered in future pricing decisions.

In addition to encouraging your individual submissions, BCA is also contributing to a joint submission being prepared by Vision 2020 Australia. If you would like BCA to consider your views as part of this engagement, please contact me directly at francois.jacobs@bca.org.au with any input you would like included.

Changes to Melbourne Airport pick up and drop off zones

Melbourne Airport is entering a new phase of its expansion project, with new pick up and drop off arrangements beginning 6th October 2026. These updates form part of the T123 Transport Hub and Naarm Way Stage 2 works, including a redesigned elevated road providing direct access from the Tullamarine Freeway.

Arriving passengers: Taxi and rideshare pick up locations for arriving passengers remain exactly the same. You can continue using the existing pick up zones at Terminals 1, 2 and 3, and Terminal 4.

Departing passengers: For departures, new free drop off zones will open for Terminals 1, 2 and 3, and on Level 2 of the T4 Transport Hub. These areas are dedicated drop off points with four accessible parking bays at each location, positioned closest to the entrance, security screening and the Mobility Hub.

If you need assistance, Melbourne Airport’s Assist Service will operate daily from 3am to 1am. This service can be pre booked or requested on arrival by calling 0492 868 960. Regular travellers may wish to save this number for future trips. Calling on arrival is available, but availability may vary depending on demand. In addition, passengers may simply present at the mobility hubs for assistance without booking or calling ahead.

From the moment you are dropped off, Mobility Hub staff are available at the entrance to support you. If you prefer not to walk the bridge, a buggy service is available.

Please note that these changes do not affect the separate process for arranging meet and assist with your airline. You must still contact your airline directly for assistance from the check in counter to the aircraft, or from the aircraft to the arrivals area.

Planning your first trip under the new system:

We recommend that members allow a little extra time the first time they travel after 6th October to get familiar with the new layout. The Online Mobility Hub provides helpful resources, including:

  • Videos to help plan your journey, created by people with lived experience
  • The special assistance booking form
  • Interactive and printable maps
  • Information on accessible facilities, sensory maps and social stories.

You can find these resources at Melbourne Airport’s Online Mobility Hub.

Raising concerns or providing feedback:

If you have feedback about the new arrangements, you can contact Melbourne Airport through the Community Hub, the Help & Information section of their website, or speak directly with staff at any Mobility Hub. Members are also welcome to contact BCA if you would like us to raise issues on your behalf as these changes roll out.

BCA Events

Plan ahead using our monthly calendar – the events calendar for October 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, 10th October 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. If we are full, or you don’t make it before 8:00pm, you are still very welcome to stay and listen on mute.

BCA’s 51st Annual General Meeting

Thursday, 26th November at 7:30pm AEDT.

All members are warmly invited to join us for the 51st Annual General Meeting of BCA, taking place via Zoom. We encourage all members to register and join us for this important event.

In preparation for the AGM, you’ll find the relevant documents, reports and meeting information in the notice sent to members and on the BCA website.

To register for the AGM visit the Humanitix website.

We look forward to seeing you there!

If you require assistance registering, please feel free to contact us at events@bca.org.au or call 1800 033 660.

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, 9th October at 11:00am AEDT.

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.

Public Speaking Forum

Monday 12th October at 7:30pm AEDT.

Looking to build your confidence and sharpen your communication skills? Join our Public Speaking Forum, a friendly and supportive space where you can develop your presentation skills in an encouraging environment. Please note that members who have previously expressed interest in participating will be given priority for speaking roles, although a few additional spots are available. If all speaking positions are filled, you are still welcome to attend and observe.

Braille Enthusiasts Peer Group

Please note that the group won’t be meeting in October. The next group meeting will be on Tuesday, 10th November at 7:30pm AEDT.

Music Group

Wednesday, 14th October at 7:30pm AEDT.

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.

Around the Branches

Casino / Richmond Valley Branch

You are invited to celebrate International White Cane Day.

When: Thursday 15th October at 11:30 am

Where: Meet at Richmond Valley Council Chambers (10 Graham place Casino)

Activity: Walk through the shopping centre (Walker Street) to the Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant for lunch.

Cost: Order and pay for your own lunch.

Sighted, blind and vision impaired people are invited to participate in this activity along with support workers and carers to raise awareness of the unique challenges and needs of blind or vision impaired people in our community.

If you have a white cane, please bring it.

RSVP is essential Phone Denise on 0448 014 682 or email deniseg.vip@outlook.com by Friday 9th October 2026.

BCA Sydney Branch AGM

Saturday, 17th October at 2:00pm AEDT with attendees to connect by 1:50pm.

BCA Sydney branch will host its Annual General Meeting followed at 3.00pm by a social catch up; with both activities to be conducted via Zoom.

New Horizons

This week, we talk employment, with BCA’s very own Sabrina Fink, the project coordinator for An Eye to The Future. Take a listen to the New Horizons podcast.

Do you have any ideas for stories, or feedback about the show? Contact us on new.horizons@bca.org.au.

News From Outside BCA

International

The World Blind Union is pleased to share a new resource from the International Disability Alliance (IDA)

Political Participation and OPD Leadership under CRPD General Comment No. 11: Analysis and Practical Advocacy Guide for Organisations of Persons with Disabilities

The guide examines the recently adopted UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD Committee) General Comment on participation in political and public life. It explores the implications for voting, standing for election, shaping laws and public budgets, and holding public institutions accountable.

The guide also highlights the independent representative role of organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), including the sustainable funding, accessibility and support they need to participate effectively in decision-making while maintaining their autonomy and freedom to advocate.

With detailed paragraph references, the resource combines a summary and legal analysis with practical advocacy tools. It may be useful for OPDs and others engaging with public authorities, electoral bodies, donors and civil society partners.

We encourage members of the WBU community to explore and share this resource with your networks.

National

AFDO is inviting NDIS participants to take part in small online workshops about changes to NDIS provider registration

The Australian Government is expanding registration requirements for providers delivering some supports, including high intensity personal care and assistance with daily personal activities. The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission wants to understand how the changes can be introduced while protecting participants’ safety, choice and access to support.

We want to hear:

  • what works well about your current supports and should be protected
  • any problems the changes could create, including if a provider decides not to register
  • whether the proposed definitions identify supports that need stronger safeguards without including supports that have lower risks
  • what information and help participants will need.

The total time commitment is 90 minutes:

  • about 30 minutes to read a paper beforehand
  • and one hour to attend a workshop on Microsoft Teams.

Selected participants will be paid for their preparation and workshop attendance. We will provide payment details when we confirm places.

Please express interest in any of these workshops that suit you:

  • Thursday 15 October 2026: 2–3 pm AEDT; 1:30–2:30 pm ACDT; 1–2 pm AEST (QLD); 12:30–1:30 pm ACST (NT); 11 am–12 noon AWST
  • Wednesday 21 October 2026: 2–3 pm AEDT; 1:30–2:30 pm ACDT; 1–2 pm AEST (QLD); 12:30–1:30 pm ACST (NT); 11 am–12 noon AWST
  • Thursday 22 October 2026: 10:30–11:30 am AEDT; 10–11 am ACDT; 9:30–10:30 am AEST (QLD); 9–10 am ACST (NT); 7:30–8:30 am AWST

Use this online form to register your interest

Expressions of interest close Tuesday 20 October 2026.

We will consider them as they arrive so we can confirm places for the 15 October workshop earlier. Sessions may fill before the closing date.

Selected participants must read the paper before their workshop, attend the full hour and actively contribute to the discussion. You can contribute by speaking, using the chat, using an AAC device or through a communication partner. You may attend with a support person. An Easy Read version of the paper is being prepared.

The form lets you tell us what would help you take part. If a group workshop does not suit you, you can ask about another way to give feedback.

If you need help with the form, email office@afdo.org.au.

Nominations for WWDA’s Management Committee (Board) are now open

This is a volunteer opportunity to help guide WWDA’s direction and strengthen our advocacy for women, girls and gender-diverse people with disabilities. Committee members meet online each month and contribute to decisions about WWDA’s strategy, governance and future.

This year, we are particularly interested in people with skills in strategic planning, legal work and philanthropy.

Nominations close Friday 16 October 2026.

Find out more, read the position description and complete the online nomination form.

Management Committee nominations

If you are interested in applying you will need another WWDA member to support your nomination.

If you need help with the form or have questions about the process, please contact members@wwda.org.au

The 11th Annual Community Event for Patients with Keratoconus – KeraClub 2026:

The 11th annual KeraClub, a community event for patients with keratoconus and their carers, will be held as a webinar this year on Wednesday, 28th October 2026, 5:00 pm–6:30 pm (AEDT). Co-hosted by The University of Sydney and Keratoconus Australia, KeraClub 2026 will bring together patients, researchers, and clinicians for discussions on the latest advancements in keratoconus management.

The speakers include ophthalmologists, invited optometrists, researchers and patients with lived experience of keratoconus.

Whether you have keratoconus, care for someone who does, or are interested in the latest advances in keratoconus research and treatment, KeraClub provides an engaging and informative forum to connect with the community and learn from experts in the field.

Date: Wednesday, 28 October 2026

Time: 5pm to 6:30pm, AEDT

Platform: Webinar (Zoom details will be available upon registration)

Learn more and register.

New South Wales

Have your say on the draft National Parks Establishment Plan

The NSW Government is seeking community feedback on the future of our national parks.

We are developing a new National Parks Establishment Plan which will provide a clear framework for establishing national park lands and protecting NSW’s unique natural and cultural heritage.

The plan will include guidelines on how land will be assessed and prioritised for future investment.

We are asking community members, stakeholders and interested groups to review the draft National Parks Establishment Plan to:

  • highlight priorities, concerns or gaps
  • help make the plan clear and practical.

Visit the NSW Government’s Have Your Say website to access the draft plan and make a submission.

Your feedback will help shape the final plan by making sure a range of community perspectives and knowledge are considered

Submissions close Monday 12 October 2026.

Victoria

Looking to meet new people in the Ballarat blindness and low vision community?

Cake and Connect is a relaxed, welcoming opportunity to get together over tea and cake, have a chat, share experiences and interests, and learn more about Guided Eyes Co-op Ltd.

There’s no pressure. Come along for a conversation, stay for the cake, and connect with others in the community.

Date: Tuesday, 27th October 2026

Time: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Venue: Robert Clark Centre

Address: 401 to 405 Wendouree Parade, Lake Wendouree VIC 3353

Attendance is free.

Morning tea and cake will be provided.

Guide dogs are welcome.

Support workers, family members and supporters are also welcome.

We’d love to see you there.

To register visit Guided Eyes Cake and Connect

Queensland

Glow in the Dark: Confidence Through Style and Connection

Presented by Live Well With Vision Loss during Mental Health Awareness Week and Blindness Awareness Month.

Glow in the Dark brings together confidence, personal style, self-care and connection for people who are blind or have low vision.

Date: Sunday, 11th October at The Wickham, Brisbane.

Participant workshops: 9:45am to 2:45pm

Free Fashion and Community Celebration: 3:00 to 6:00 pm

Glow in the Dark is an inclusive day created with and for people who are blind or have low vision.

The day brings together practical workshops, confidence-building activities, personal connection and plenty of fun. Participants will have the opportunity to learn, share experiences, meet others from the community and celebrate their individual style.

Friends, family, supporters and members of the wider community are welcome to attend the Fashion Celebration free of charge.

For more details or to register visit Glow in the Dark: Confidence Through Style and Connection

Support BCA’s 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

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.