Update from the CEO
Dear Members,
Preparations are currently underway ahead of our Annual General Meeting to elect our new leadership, including BCA Board and the NSW/ACT State Division. The Board is also reviewing expressions of interest for the National Policy Committee and the Finance, Audit, and Risk Management Committee.
As Andrew Webster was the only nominee for BCA President, he has been elected unopposed. I look forward to working alongside Andrew over the next three years to continue serving our community.
Details regarding candidates and election processes should be received by members in preferred formats by Friday, 13th November at the latest.
Convention 2027 – Venue Confirmed and AV Tender Opportunity
We are pleased to confirm that Rydges South Bank Brisbane will be the venue for the BCA Convention 2027.
Rydges South Bank is an ideal base for the event, with accommodation, meeting spaces and dining all in one location. It is also just a short walk to the South Bank Parklands, giving attendees plenty to explore during their time in Brisbane.
We have been working closely with the venue to ensure accessibility remains a key priority in our planning, enabling all attendees to participate fully and enjoy the event.
The convention will take place from Friday, 11th to Sunday, 13th June 2027.
Discounted accommodation details and convention registration information, including ticket prices, will be shared in the coming weeks.
AV Tender Now Open
We are inviting interested suppliers to submit a tender for the event’s audio-visual requirements. The AV Tender document outlines the requirements and submission process
The deadline for tender submissions is Friday 13 November 2026.
We look forward to sharing further updates as preparations for Convention 2027 continue.
Finally, Elly Wood has made the decision to step down from her role as Executive Assistant after four and a half months with Blind Citizens Australia. On behalf of the team, I want to extend our sincere thanks to Elly for her hard work and support during her time with us, and we wish her every success in her next chapter.
As we navigate this transition, we are currently recruiting for a new Executive Assistant. If you or someone in your network has strong administrative skills and a passion for supporting BCA’s mission, we encourage you to view the position description on our website or share the opportunity within your networks.
In the interim, our team is working collaboratively to ensure all administrative and member support services continue seamlessly. Thank you as always for your ongoing support.
Deb Deshayes, BCA CEO
Policy, Advocacy & Representation
Getting BCA members’ voices heard: Disability Discrimination Act review summary is out now – Melanie Chatfield
A summary of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1992 consultation review has been published. Thanks to all the BCA members who provided their knowledge and feedback to make our submission possible.
The Australian Government has released a summary of feedback received during its review of the DDA, which aims to strengthen legal protections for people with disability. More than 1,100 submissions and survey responses were received, with key issues including stronger obligations to prevent discrimination, clearer requirements for reasonable adjustments, and improved recognition of assistance animals. These reforms are particularly important for people who are blind or vision impaired, including in accessing employment, education, services and public spaces.
The Government is now considering the feedback to inform the next stages of the review. Read the summary on the Attorney General’s website here.
More from BCA
The RISE Program is returning in 2027
Blind Citizens Australia is excited to announce that the RISE Program (Resilience, Insight & Skills for Employment) will be returning in 2027 as part of the An Eye to the Future employment project.
Following the success of the pilot 2026 program held earlier this year, RISE will once again provide an opportunity for people who are blind or vision impaired to strengthen their leadership capabilities, build practical skills, and connect with others who share similar experiences and aspirations.
The RISE program is a 12-week online program designed for emerging leaders. Through interactive learning, one-on-one mentoring, peer engagement and practical activities, participants are supported to develop confidence, self-awareness and skills that can assist them in employment, further study, community participation and leadership roles.
Participants will have the opportunity to explore topics such as:
- Leadership and personal development
- Communication and advocacy
- Resilience and problem solving
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Goal setting and career planning
- Building professional and community networks
The program is delivered in a safe, accessible and supportive environment and draws on the knowledge and experience of mentors and facilitators who understand the lived experience of blindness and low vision.
Expressions of Interest for the 2027 intake will open soon. Places will be available to BCA members aged 18 and over, with participants selected through an Expression of Interest and matching process.
We encourage members who are interested in developing their skills, expanding their networks and exploring their leadership potential to keep an eye out for further information in the coming weeks.
For now, consider how RISE could support your career goals in 2027.
BCA Events
Plan ahead using our monthly calendar – the events calendar for November 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, 31st 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.
- 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
BCA Inform – Autonomous Vehicles and Accessible Public Standard
Tuesday 10th November from 7:30pm to 9:00pm AEDT.
What could the future of transport look like for people who are blind or vision impaired?
Join us as we welcome guest speaker Steve Hurd who will take us through emerging developments in transport technology, including autonomous vehicles and the potential for self-driving technology to provide greater independence and mobility for people who are blind or vision impaired. We’ll consider how close these technologies may be to becoming a reality and what changes may be needed to ensure people who are blind or vision impaired can benefit from these developments.
The session will also include an update on recent changes to the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport, including new rules designed to make public transport safer, easier to use and more accessible.
To register for this event visit the Humanitix website.
If you have any questions, or if you require assistance registering, please feel free to contact us at events@bca.org.au or call 1800 033 660.
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.
Employment Group
Monday, 2nd November at 7:30pm AEDT.
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.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 864 4868 5967
- Passcode: 337783
Book Club
Wednesday, 4th November at 7:00pm AEDT.
In this meeting, the group will discuss ”Sisters Under the Rising Sun” by Heather Morris available from the Vision Australia library.
This group is open to all readers, whether you’ve just embarked on your reading journey or have been immersed in books for many years, you are welcome to come along. You will have the chance to discuss books, exchange ideas, and broaden your horizons through the magic of storytelling.
- Join via weblink
- Join with one tap mobile
- Join by phone by dialling 03 7018 2005 using Meeting ID: 850 6354 6612
- Passcode: 934727
Around the Branches
Tasmania Branch
Members of the Tasmania Branch located in Hobart are invited to our last two catch ups for 2026.
The first event will take place on 31st October between 11:30am and around 2:30pm at Central Hobart Bistro and Bar, 73 Collins Street (right near the Collins Street taxi rank).
RSVP to Vanessa by 29th October by calling 0417 387 079 or email vanessa.k.ransley@gmail.com
Our second event will be our Christmas Catch up which is on 28th November, between 11:30am and around 2:30pm at Central Hobart Bistro and Bar, 73 Collins Street (right near the Collins Street taxi rank).
RSVP to Vanessa by 20th November by calling 0417 387 079 or email vanessa.k.ransley@gmail.com
RSVPs are vital if you want to be guaranteed a place at the table and be a part of the festivities.
Queensland Branch
The Queensland branch is excited to announce its scheduled upcoming Christmas parties. This is a wonderful opportunity for local Branch members to come together.
Brisbane location: Club Yeronga, Saturday, 5th December at 11:30am.
Toowoomba location: Toowoomba Golf Club, Friday, 4th December at 12:00pm (details to be confirmed).
Please RSVP to Adrian Watson at queensland@bca.org.au
New Horizons
This week, we receive an update from our Systemic Advocacy lead, Francois Jacobs, about the work he’s currently engaged in. 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
Join Australian Men’s and Women’s Blind Football Team
Blind Sports Australia (BSA) is looking for new players to join the Australian Men’s and Women’s Blind Football Team.
Blind Football is a sport played in a similar format to futsal, with five players on each side composed of four blind or vision impaired outfield players and one sighted goalkeeper. The outfield players are blindfolded, and the soccer ball contains a bell for tracking. The aim is to communicate with your teammates, listen to the ball, and score a goal against the opposing team.
It’s a fun and active sport which provides a great way to build your confidence, stay active, and form strong friendships. If you’re up to the challenge, there are also pathways to play at an international level and represent Australia on a global scale.
If you’re interested in learning more about the sport, and how you can get involved, please email Connor at football@blindsportsaustralia.com.au
Notice of Annual General Meeting of People with Disability Australia
The 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of People with Disability Australia (PWDA) will be held on Thursday, 12th November 2026.
The AGM will start at 6:00pm AEDT and is expected to finish at approximately 8:00pm AEDT.
The AGM will be held online via Zoom.
Members must register to attend the AGM by 5:00pm AEDT on Monday 9 November 2026.
After you register, you will be sent the AGM Zoom link via email.
For more information and to register visit PWDA 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Crumbcade: New iPhone game for blind and sighted players
Crumbcade is a free bakery match-three game for iPhone made by Tori, a blind app developer in Adelaide. It plays fully with VoiceOver and has a full visual game for sighted players, so blind and sighted people can play the same game and challenge each other to duels. Every square speaks its row, column and food, each food has its own kitchen sound, and with headphones the board sounds are in stereo. There are solo levels, a daily challenge, duels, clubs and a Halloween event from 25th to 31st of October. Find it in Apple’s App Store. Questions or feedback to support@crumbcade.com
Expression of Interest: Help Shape an Accessible Doorstep Assistant
Intermentis, a New Zealand company developing Soter, is seeking feedback from blind or vision impaired people to help improve an accessibility-focused doorstep assistant.
Soter is designed to help people understand who is at their door and why they are visiting, using spoken information, visitor details and optional accessible indoor controls.
Intermentis is now keen to hear from Australians with lived experience of blindness or vision impairment who would be interested in sharing their thoughts, questions, suggestions or concerns to help shape the product’s future development.
To share feedback or register your interest, contact Greg Peyroux, Co-founder of Intermentis, at greg@intermentis.com or call +64 21 262 9769.
Victoria
Memory and Light – A Multisensory Exhibition
Legally blind artist Erica Tandori presents Memory and Light – Explorations of a Multisensory Landscape, an exhibition exploring the Australian landscape through vision, touch, sound and memory.
Visitors can experience oil paintings and raised-line works through tactile interpretation, audio description, large print and artist books, making accessibility an integral part of the exhibition.
Date: 28th November – 6th December 2026
Location: & Collectors, 1/165 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy
Opening: Saturday 28th November, 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Special event: Thursday, 3 December, marking International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Find out more: Art & Collectors – Memory and Light
Vision Australia releases Victorian election priorities
Ahead of the November 2026 Victorian state election, Vision Australia has released five priorities aimed at improving independence, access and opportunities for people who are blind or have low vision.
The priorities call for:
- an accessible driverless taxi pilot, co-designed with people who are blind or have low vision
- stronger penalties for attacks on guide dogs
- clearer and more consistent audio announcements across public transport
- $250,000 in funding for Vision Australia Radio; and
- a supported training and employment program for people with disability.
Vision Australia is calling on the next Victorian Government to consider these priorities to help create a more accessible and inclusive Victoria.
Read Vision Australia’s full Victorian election priorities
Audio-Described Dance Performances at Dancehouse
Dancehouse, Australia’s centre for independent dance, invites blind or vision impaired audiences to experience two exciting Australian dance works on Saturday, 21st November 2026 at Dancehouse in North Carlton, Melbourne. Presented as part of ORBIT, a national touring program celebrating independent contemporary dance, both performances will feature audio description.
2:30 pm – Future History by Gabrielle Nankivell
An evocative contemporary dance work exploring the human body in a world shaped by conflict, extinction, climate catastrophe and global uncertainty. Book tickets.
4:00 pm – Gameboy by Amy Zhang
A playful, physically dynamic performance blending street dance and contemporary movement to explore the collision between the real and virtual worlds. Book tickets.
For more information, visit the Future History and Gameboy event pages.
Improving Accessible Wayfinding – V/Line
Join V/Line and GoodMaps on Thursday, 5th November from 6:30pm to 7:30pm AEDT, for a discussion about accessible wayfinding and navigation, collaboration, and improving independent travel experiences for passengers.
Hear directly from V/Line and GoodMaps about their Australian-first trial and how it came to life, the community consultation that helped shape it, and the lessons learnt from implementing accessible navigation technology across the V/Line network.
You’ll also hear from a member of V/Line’s Accessibility Reference Group about their experience using GoodMaps and how accessible wayfinding and navigation can support greater confidence and independence when travelling.
To learn more and to register visit Join Us: Hear how V/Line and GoodMaps are improving accessible wayfinding
Queensland
Free Come and Try golf clinics – Empower Golf
We are excited to invite the disabled community to attend our upcoming free “Come & Try Clinics”. No prior experience in golf is needed – just come along, learn a new skill and meet new people at the following locations:
Topgolf Gold Coast – First Tuesday of each month from 10:00am to 12:00pm. The next clinic is on Tuesday, 3rd November.
Carindale – Pacific Golf Club – Second Tuesday of each month between 10:00am and 12:00pm.
Bribie Island – Pacific Harbour Golf Club – First Thursday of each month between 10:00am and 12:00pm.
Burleigh Driving Range – 150 Tallebudgera Creek Rd, Tallebudgera – First Monday of each month between 11:00am – 1:00pm.
These clinics are open to anyone living with disability and are run by accredited specialised coaches who provide expert advice and guidance.
To learn more or to book visit GOLF CLINICS – Empower Golf
Empower Legacy Project – ‘Count Me In’ Survey – Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN)
QDN imagines a Queensland where every person with disability can take part in sport and physical activity in ways that matter to them.
The Empower project is the first Queensland Government-funded Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Legacy initiative and many of our QDN Members are a part of the project. We want to hear from you.
This survey is an opportunity to help shape a lasting legacy for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Tell us about your experiences with sport and being active.
What you share will help build the evidence needed to create real change in sport and physical activity across Queensland – so more people with disability can say, “Count Me In”.
The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete, and you can do it in your own time. You can skip any questions you do not want to answer, and you can stop at any time.
Survey closes: Friday,4th December 2026
If you would like support to complete the survey, you can contact the Empower team on 1300 363 783 or email qdn@qdn.org.au.
You can also visit the website
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.
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.