Five Australian organisations have collaborated to create a video series that aims to provide businesses with the best practice methods and tools to ensure workplaces can support the recruitment, development, and retention of deaf employees.
The series titled ‘Signs of Success’ was launched at the Australian Disability Network’s Impact 2025 Conference in Sydney, through the efforts of Australia Post, Deaf Connect, The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), The Victorian College for the Deaf, and the Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.
The series also showcases real stories of inclusivity from deaf employees from the aforementioned agencies, providing a window into an Australian business or industry, where these organisations have implemented the accommodations and support necessary to ensure the success of their deaf staff.
Deaf Connect spearheaded the project with funding from the Australian Government Department of Social Services through the Information Linkages and Capacity Building (ILC) program and was supported by research undertaken by Deakin University.
CEO Brett Casey said the organisation is proud to lead an initiative that gives employers the confidence to foster the career progression of deaf staff across the nation.
“As the largest employer of deaf people in Australia, I witness every day the skills, knowledge and expertise our staff bring to their roles – skills which would not be recognised in an organisation that can’t accommodate a diverse workforce,” Casey said. “This cross-industry collaboration demonstrates the real value of investing in Deaf staff members – through innovation, inclusive leadership and a strong commitment to professional development.”
National Disability Insurance Agency CEO Rebecca Falkingham said that the project conveys the importance of strong leadership to create inclusive work environments.
“Managers play a critical role in shaping workplace culture, including ensuring all employees have the resources and tools they need to effectively perform their role. This project is about offering clear, practical steps that help employers move beyond good intentions to real, measurable change,” Falkingham said. “Simple shifts like fostering open dialogue, ensuring access to Auslan, and displaying equality in promoting Deaf employees to leadership roles can create a culture where everyone thrives.”
Australia Post head of diversity, inclusion and talent, Julie Duncan, said inclusive accommodations benefit all employees in the workplace, and Auslan access is an essential part of this.
“We were thrilled to share our learnings on how to better support the deaf workforce, and the benefits of a truly inclusive environment,” Duncan said. “Providing interpreters and captioning workplace meetings not only supports our deaf team members, but also enhances collaboration and productivity across the entire enterprise. We’re on a journey of continuous improvement, and our Signs of Success episode discussed the Auslan interpreted session that united all of our deaf team members, creating a space where they could share their thoughts and experiences.”
Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) Chief Human Resources Officer Parul Chauhan said inclusive workplaces are built on trust, respect and the right support structures.
“At DBCA, we have seen how tailored adjustments and open communication can empower our employees with diverse needs to contribute with confidence and grow in their roles,” Chauhan said. “Programs like the Signs of Success series help employers move beyond basic accessibility and create real opportunities for career development.”
