Following yesterday’s announcement regarding the proposed changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), I wanted to emphasise the importance of this issue and reinforce why BCA is continuing to advocate strongly for the rights of people who are blind or vision impaired.
We believe the changes risk reducing participant choice and control, creating uncertainty around lifelong supports, and moving away from the individualised approach that has been fundamental to the NDIS since its inception.
BCA has been actively engaged throughout this process, including lodging two submissions to the Australian Government, and working closely with the NDIA as a Disability Representative and Carer Organisation (DRCO). We will continue to advocate for a Scheme that recognises and responds to the individual needs of people with disability.
We have also prepared a template letter that we encourage you use to write to their local Members of Parliament and Senators. You can find the template on our website, personalise it with your own experiences and share your concerns with decision-makers. Every message helps demonstrate the real impact these changes could have on people who are blind or vision impaired.
We recognise there is a significant amount of information and discussion currently circulating about the NDIS, and we are committed to helping you navigate the updates that are most relevant and important. The feedback and experiences you share continue to guide our advocacy and focus our work on the issues that matter most. Below are some additional NDIS updates and opportunities to help you stay informed as we continue to advocate for our community.
In other news, I recently had the opportunity to meet with Mark Nevin, Optometry Australia CEO. It was a valuable opportunity to introduce Mark to BCA, provide an overview of our organisation, advocacy priorities and discuss the needs of people who are blind or vision impaired.
Building strong connections with organisations across the sector is an important part of our work, and we look forward to continuing these conversations to support greater understanding and collaboration.
– Deb Deshayes, BCA CEO.
A reminder, you can also read this update on BCA’s website.
Policy, Advocacy & Representation
Policy Update: Thank you for sharing your views on NDIS Communications – Melanie Chatfield
BCA endorsed two submissions last week:
Thank you to everyone who completed BCA’s recent survey on Australian Government communications about the NDIS. We received 25 valid responses from people who are blind or vision impaired across Australia.
The survey found that while most participants access NDIS information through email, news sources, the NDIS website and the MyNDIS Portal, many do not feel confident that the information they receive is clear, reliable or relevant to their circumstances.
Key findings showed that:
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Most respondents relied on support coordinators, advocates, peers, BCA or other trusted people to help interpret NDIS information.
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Almost half of respondents said it is often difficult to tell whether NDIS information applies to them.
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Many respondents reported concerns about inconsistent advice, poor communication about changes, and difficulties accessing information through digital platforms.
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Respondents highlighted the need for information that is accessible, available in preferred formats, written in plain language and tailored to different disability groups.
The feedback reinforces BCA’s advocacy for accessible-by-default communications, clear and timely information about NDIS changes in preferred formats, disability-specific guidance, and use of multiple communication channels that do not rely solely on digital platforms.
We have provided the survey findings to inform government consultations and ongoing advocacy on behalf of people who are blind or vision impaired.
Thank you again for helping ensure the voices of people who are blind or vision impaired are heard.
Opportunity to have your say on the NDIS new way of planning
The NDIS are inviting interested participants to take part in testing activities to help the NDIA improve the new way of planning. This is a great opportunity to have your say. Participants may choose to be involved in a simulated support needs assessment, help support the accreditation of NDIA staff who will conduct assessments in the future, or take part in both activities.
Sessions are held online via Microsoft Teams and usually take around 2 hours. Participation is voluntary, participants can stop or withdraw at any time, and taking part will not affect a person’s current NDIS plan, funding or supports. Participants will be paid $200 for each session completed.
If you are interested, please express your interest by contacting Layal via email
layal.hage@bca.org.au by Friday, 24th July 2026.
BCA Events
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, 18th 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. If we are full, or you don’t make it before 8:00pm, you are still very welcome to stay and listen on mute.
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Join with one tap mobile using the number below (via iOS): +61280156011,,84491693225#,,,,*424050#
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Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 844 9169 3225
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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.
Guitar Group
Saturday, 18th July at 2:00pm AEST.
The guitar group offers a welcoming space for players of all levels, from beginners to advanced, to come together to share tips and techniques. This group is an open platform for guitar enthusiasts where you can find support and share resources to help you along your musical journey.
Assistive Technology Group
Monday, 20th July at 8:00pm AEST.
Assistive Technology is useful and increasingly necessary in our daily lives. However, not everything is easy to navigate, and new technologies develop every day. Join Adam and others to learn more about assistive technology and how to get the best from it.
Gardening Group
Wednesday, 22nd July at 7:30pm AEST.
Gardening can be therapeutic and bring joy when plants are growing and thriving. Join Silvana and other gardening enthusiasts and share your knowledge, tips, and techniques for a flourishing home garden. All are welcome!
Music Group
Wednesday, 22nd 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.
Around the Branches
Tasmania Branch
Statewide Zoom Catch-Up
The Tasmania Branch is hosting a statewide gathering via Zoom at 10:00am this Saturday, 18th July.
This is a great chance for members to get together and chat. For part of the meeting, we will be turning the tables and interviewing Steve Ransley-Richardson, who as you know is the host of the BCA National podcast New Horizons.
Southern Tasmania in-person catch-ups
The Tasmanian branch of BCA will be holding a lunch/catch-up in Hobart on Saturday 25th July from 11:30am to around 2:30pm.
Where: Central Hotel Hobart Bistro and Bar, 73 Collins Street (right near the Collins Street taxi rank).
Food and drinks (including coffee) available at bar prices. To access the menu, visit the
Central Hotel website.
North-West in-person catch-ups
There is an ever-growing group of interested BCA members and friends that are meeting in person every month or so. These are at different venues. If you are interested in attending, or getting more information about these, please contact Kristy directly at
kristystichter8@gmail.com Queensland Branch
The next Queensland branch meeting will be held on Saturday, 25th July at 3:00pm. The meeting will take place online via Zoom and all Branch members are welcome to join. Please find the meeting’s joining details below:
Meeting ID: 853 9071 7366
Passcode: 656344
One tap mobile
+61871501149,,85390717366# Australia
+61280156011,,85390717366# Australia
We look forward to seeing you there!
New Horizons
This week, all you need to know about the 2026 Census, and we meet the new Executive Assistant to the CEO, Elly Wood.
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
National
Applications Now Open: Accessible Books Consortium Fellowship – The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO)
The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) is seeking applications for a 12-month fellowship with its Accessible Books Consortium (ABC), based in Geneva, Switzerland, commencing in October 2026.
This unique opportunity is ideal for individuals passionate about accessible publishing and library services. Fellows will support initiatives that increase the availability of books in accessible formats such as Braille, audio, large print and accessible e-text, while working with organisations around the world to advance the goals of the Marrakesh Treaty.
Applications close Monday, 3rd August 2026.
If you’re interested in accessible information, publishing, library services or international disability inclusion, this is an exciting opportunity to gain valuable experience with a United Nations agency.
Understanding the NDIS webinar: Community Connections
Community Connections are all about helping people find the supports they need in their local community.
In this session we will talk about:
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what NDIA Community Connections are and how they can help
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how to find practical information about your disability or condition
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ways to access support through mainstream and community services
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how to connect with people who share similar experiences
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support for applying to the NDIS, including help with submitting your access request.
Session date: Thursday, 23rd July from 1:00pm to 2:00pm AEST.
It Takes One Advocate: Stories about Transforming Lives
Wednesday, 12th August at 1:00am AEST.
It takes one advocate to improve a patient’s health care experience. Hear from advocates for the blind and vision impaired who are making a huge difference one life at a time!
Call for Applications – Australia & Pacific Youth Climate Dialogue (APYCD)
Are you passionate about climate action and ready to make a difference? Young people aged 14–29 are invited to apply for the Pre-COP31 Australia–Pacific Youth Climate Dialogue (APYCD), a fully funded event taking place in Nadi, Fiji, from Thursday, 1st October to Saturday, 3rd October 2026.
Designed by young people, for young people, the Dialogue will bring together participants from across Australia and the Pacific to share ideas, develop solutions, and contribute to a Youth Declaration that will help inform discussions at Pre-COP31 and COP31.
If you’re involved in a youth movement or organisation and are passionate about creating a more sustainable future, don’t miss this opportunity to have your voice heard. Please also share this opportunity with your networks to help ensure diverse youth voices are represented.
Victoria
Have Your Say on Accessible Transport and Planning – Victorian Government
The Victorian Government is seeking applications for three new members to join the Transport and Planning Accessibility Advisory Committee (TPAAC). Formerly known as the Accessible Transport Advisory Committee (ATAC), the Committee now has an expanded role, providing advice on both transport and planning to help create more inclusive and accessible communities across Victoria.
This is a valuable opportunity for people with disability, or those with experience in inclusive community development, to help shape policies and projects relating to transport, housing, buildings and land management.
Applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday, 9th August 2026.
Attend information sessions – GoodMaps
GoodMaps is a smartphone app that uses signage and electronic devices within an area to give you an indoor sense of what’s around you, for example toilets, cafeteria, etc.
V/Line are offering some upcoming information sessions and hands‑on demonstrations for anyone interested in learning more about GoodMaps. The information session gives you the opportunity to learn about the app, ask questions and practise using it in a real station environment with support available.
Upcoming information sessions:
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Bendigo – Tuesday, 28th July, 11:00am to 12:00pm
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Geelong – Wednesday, 29th July, 11:00am to 12:00pm
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Tarneit – Wednesday, 5th August, 11:00am to 12:00pm
The purpose of the session is to help you:
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Understand what GoodMaps is and how it can assist you when travelling through V/Line stations
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Gain practical, hands-on experience using the app in the actual station environment where you would normally travel.
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Receive guidance from V/Line staff who understand how the app works and how it is intended to be used within stations.
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Build confidence navigating independently and interpreting the information and directions provided by the app.
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Learn how to use the app alongside your existing travel and mobility supports, such as a white cane, guide dog, screen reader, headphones, or other assistive technology.
Queensland
Open Day 2026 – Guide Dogs
Date: Saturday, 18th July 2026.
Time: 10:00am to 2:00pm.
Guide Dogs Queensland, 1978 Gympie Road, Bald Hills, QLD 4036.
The Guide Dogs Open Day is taking place this Saturday. Witness their amazing Guide Dogs demonstrate their skills and learn about their training journey. There will be opportunities to meet the dogs, hear about the incredible impact they have for those living with low vision and blindness and learn more about accessibility, their vision services, and how you can become an advocate and get involved.
There will be food and drinks available, entertainment, jumping castles, sensory experiences, giveaways, and lots of fun and games for the whole family to enjoy.
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.
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.
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.
