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.

Deaf Children Australia is a national not-for-profit organisation representing the needs of deaf and hearing impaired children and their families across Australia

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 deaf and hearing impaired people between the ages of 15 and 21. Grants as high as $2000 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.

Cool Kids, Cool Parents Program
The Cool Kids, Cool Parents parenting skills pilot program was introduced in Melbourne from August - October 2006 and following its success, Deaf Children Australia with be replicating the program in New South Wales and Queensland in coming months.

The program involves a series of workshops and discussion groups for parents which will cover topics such as stress management, sibling rivalry, parenting methods, and choices and restrictions facing parents today.

It is hoped that through Cool Kids, Cool Parents children will receive the support they need to enhance their communication skills and sense of identity, and to experience decreased isolation, increased self esteem and greater participation in family and community life.

Helpline
All families require help with their children from time to time, Deaf Children Australia's helpline assists families of deaf and hearing impaired children to make the best choices for their children.

The helpline is a free, confidential and anonymous service available to families of deaf and hearing impaired children and young adults. Our Helpline operators can also answer questions from professionals, students and the public on deafness and hearing impairment.

The Helpline provides:

- Access to services provided by Deaf Children Australia

- Information and contact details for specialised services that families may need

- Information on deafness and hearing impairment for families, students, professionals and the puiblic

Ph: 1800 645 916

TTY: 1800 508 523

Sign On Employment
Deaf Children Australia also operates Sign On Employment, an 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.