What’s happening?
Townsville will host a community gathering on Saturday, 27 September 2025, as part of National Week of Deaf People (NWDP). The event will run from 11:00am to 2:00pm at Townsville Pizzeria Bar & Grill, offering Deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing locals a chance to connect in an inclusive space.
Deaf Connect is hosting 16 ‘Deaf Space’ events across Australia this week to mark NWDP, celebrated nationally from 22 to 28 September. Alongside these events, Deaf Connect has launched its first-of-its-kind ‘Deaf Space’ report.
Why it matters
The event celebrates Deaf culture, Auslan, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for connection. It aligns with this year’s NWDP theme, set by Deaf Australia: “No Human Rights without Sign Language Rights.”
“Deaf Space is more than just a physical environment. It is a sense of belonging that transcends time, space and person,” said Amanda Everitt, Deaf Connect Project Manager and report author.
Local Impact
Callie Rigby, Deaf Connect’s Community Engagement Coordinator, said the Townsville event reflects the spirit of NWDP.
“Our National Week of Deaf People event in Townsville this Saturday is set to be a wonderful opportunity to connect with members of the local Deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing community,” Ms Rigby said.
“It will be a space for Auslan conversations, and a celebration of Deaf culture and community.”
By the numbers
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16 Deaf Space events are being held across Australia this week.
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1 landmark report, the Deaf Space report, launched during NWDP.
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5 key design principles define Deaf Spaces: open sightlines, lighting and colour, mobility and flow, acoustic awareness, and sensory reach.
Zoom In
The Deaf Space report documents lived experiences of Deaf Australians across diverse groups including Deaf First Nations, Deaf LGBTQI+, Deafblind, and Deaf Disabled communities. It explores practical steps for accessibility in public life, from Auslan-friendly cafés to visual alarms in workplaces.
“This National Week of Deaf People, we’re excited to bring our community together through a series of events across the country,” said Deaf Connect CEO Brett Casey. “By showing how communities have formed around visual communication and Deaf identity, it offers practical guidance to ensure Deaf accessibility in all aspects of public life.”
Zoom Out
National Week of Deaf People is a time to reflect on the rights of Deaf people across Australia. It highlights Auslan as a human right and calls on businesses, services, and communities to ensure inclusivity.
“Over the past year, Deaf community members across Australia shared what Deaf Space means to them. They generously contributed stories, histories, and dreams,” Ms Everitt said. “By joining in and raising awareness, we can work towards a future where every Australian, no matter their hearing status, can belong, and contribute meaningfully to our society.”
What to look for next
Australians are encouraged to connect with their local Deaf communities, consider how public spaces and businesses can be more accessible, and join NWDP celebrations across the country.
