I would like to share a message on behalf of a few organisations – Deaf Australia, Deaf Connect, Deaf Victoria and Expression Australia. We would like to acknowledge recent events in Australia that had profound impact on the deaf community. We have lost two amazing men, and we recognise the immediate need in the community to receive support through this sad period.

The four organisations know that the Deaf community needs support now from various organisations and services, and to understand how to support each other.

We would like to confirm that we are collaborating with Standby organisation. They specialise in post-suicide supports. We want to ensure the community receives the right support they need during this time. We intend to create resources for you to use and ensure there are the right professionals and interpreters available for you to meet.

We are focusing on what we can do now, in the coming weeks, and in the long term. A lot of work is being done in the background, and we want to be transparent and will share as much as possible – including more information about supports, services, and resources in Auslan. We are seeking expert advice and support too.

We apologise for releasing the information today and not earlier this week. We wanted to have the right information for you all. We will also be sharing what services and resources are available in Auslan following expert advice from Australia and overseas.

We also welcome any person with experience in deaf mental health to reach out if you are interested in supporting the community through counselling, support, or resource development by contacting Deaf Australia at ceo@deafaustralia.org.au. Additionally, if you would like more information or want to provide input, please contact the same email.

There will be another video coming later today about the Standby organisation.

There will be more videos coming up. Please take care of yourself and each other.

Support Services

 
• Lifeline: www.lifeline.org.au – Text 13 11 14
 
• Beyond Blue: www.beyondblue.org.au
 
• Mensline: www.mensline.org.au
 
• Standby: www.standbysupport.com.au

Deaf Australia – ceo@deafaustralia.org.au