Deaf Children Australia
Deaf Children Australia is a charity that supports young deaf and hearing impaired people in Australia.
Formerly known as Victorian Services for Deaf Children, Deaf Children Australia was founded in the Victorian capital of Melbourne in 1860.
Services
Support
Deaf Children Australia operates a free national phone helpline that gives information and support on issues relating to childhood deafness, with specialist advice on audiology and psychology. There is also a network of family workers offering advice on education and welfare benefits for deaf children and support with appeals and tribunals.
Other services include the organising of events for families and young deaf people including arts, sports, outdoor activities and parenting days as well free publications and online discussion groups for parents.
Grants
Every year Deaf Children Australia accepts submissions for grants from young deaf and hearing impaired people. Funds are awarded to assist in implementing activities that improve the lives of deaf people and their families, as well as in recognition of the achievements of those who have overcome the challenges of deafness.
Sign On Employment
Deaf Children Australia also operates Sign On Employment, a agency which provides specialist services for not only those who are deaf or hearing impaired, but in some cases those who are afflicted by the following:
- Tinnitus
- Meniere's
- Blindness
- People who identify as having or are experiencing problems associated with anxiety or depression
- People who are carers of people with a mental health condition
Sign On provides assistance in finding and applying for employment, as well as training, referral and allows free access to office facilities.
Unlike Deaf Children Australia’s other services, Sign On Employment is not restricted to those of a young age.