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Emma Memma twirls into Government House to celebrate 140 years of Expression Australia, the nation's oldest Deaf society.

Expression Australia. Australia's oldest Deaf Society

MEDIA RELEASE

September 12, 2024

Expression Australia, the nation’s oldest Deaf Society has been recognised for it's 140 years of service to the Deaf and hard of hearing community at Government House in Melbourne today.

Deaf people in Victoria once enjoyed their gatherings under the dim glow of gaslights, where they could easily communicate in Auslan as it was deemed unacceptable in the mainstream. Today, Expression Australia commemorates the organisation's history and growth to become a leading organisation for Deaf and Hard of hearing people, a testament to the enduring resilience and determination of the community.

Since its establishment in 1884, Expression Australia has been known under the names of The Adult Deaf and Dumb Mission and the Victorian Deaf Society but has maintained its core mission of supporting the inclusion and empowerment of Deaf and hard of hearing people in society through its services and advocacy.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought Auslan into the national spotlight like never before, highlighting the need for equal access to mainstream medias for those who communicate in Auslan. Expression Australia has been at the forefront of this movement, providing essential Auslan interpreting services in the media including the ABC television news every Sunday night.

A reception at the invitation of Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, Governor of Victoria celebrated Expression Australia and those within its community who have been the catalysts of powerful change that has improved access to the Deaf and hard of hearing including its CEO, Rebecca Adam who is the first deaf person in this leadership role. Ms Adam’s says her appointment emphasises the capabilities of deaf and hard of hearing people across all sectors of society.

"Being a deaf CEO involves challenging societal perceptions and leveraging the unique perspectives and strengths that come from being deaf  or hard of hearing to be successful at leading a wonderful organisation like Expression Australia.”

Children’s entertainer Emma Memma a trail blazer in using Auslan will join co -performer Elvin Melvin who is Deaf and other significant contributors to the Deaf community to honour the history and evolution of the nation’s oldest Deaf Society.

The State Library will commemorate Expression Australia with various activities including: 

Window on Collections: Victoria’s Deaf History on 21^st September.

The gaslight that was at the original meeting place of Deaf people will be on display and serves to highlight how far they have come and lights the path ahead in creating an inclusive society for all.

 

Key Achievements:

• Advocacy and Inclusion: Expression Australia has been a tireless advocate for the rights of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals, championing their inclusion in society, and ensuring equal access to communication and services.
• Service Provision: The organisation acknowledge that hearing loss affects millions of Australians and offers a wide range of services, including Audiology, Auslan interpreting, Auslan Interpreting for Events, NDIS supports, Auslan education for both businesses and individuals, Video Production and Translations, and community support to name a few of the service lines.
• Cultural Preservation: Expression Australia plays a vital role in preserving Deaf culture and promoting the use of Auslan.

Upcoming Events:

• Deaf History Panel Discussion: The State Library of Victoria will host a panel discussion on September 17th from 1-2 pm. The original gaslight will be on display.
• National Week of Deaf People: Celebrate Deaf culture and awareness during the National Week of Deaf People, September 23-29, 2024.

 

For more information, and interviews please contact:

Kellie Curtain M: 0412339690

#DeafAndHardOfHearing #Auslan #Inclusion #Advocacy #ExpressionAustralia

 

 

 

 

 

Key Facts:

* Children's entertainer Emma Memma joins celebrations for Expression Australia - the nation's first and oldest  oldest Deaf Society

* Recognised for it's 140 years of service to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities around Australia  at Government House today

*In 1884 Deaf people would meet at night by gaslight to communicate because Auslan was not acceptable

Available for interview:

* Victoria's first Deaf CEO, Rebecca Adam 

* Children's entertainer Emma Memma and Deaf performer Elvin Melvin

* Expression Aust employee of 38 years David Peters 

About us:

ABOUT EXPRESSION AUSTRALIA

Expression Australia’s purpose is to create opportunities for people who are Deaf and hard of hearing by delivering targeted services and affecting social change. Expression Australia enables Deaf communities to flourish and is inclusive of all members of those communities, irrespective of age or background.

Since 1884, as an iconic and progressive community organisation, our service delivery and supports continue to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of our Deaf and hard of hearing people. We celebrate the rich heritage and cultural diversity of the Deaf community.

Our team is driven by a passion to work in a bi-lingual, bi-cultural organisation that respects both Auslan and English and work collaboratively together, including the development of co-designing services and market leading programs, navigation of the NDIS and ensuring improved access, inclusion, and equal opportunity.

 

Contact details:

Media Enquiries

Kellie Curtain M: 0412 339690 

Interviews, still photogrpahy and video available on request