From the 16th – 22nd April 2022, the Hunter region will welcome over 1000 participants from across the country to compete in 16 medal and 4 demonstration sports.

The aim of the Australian Deaf Games is to provide a four yearly event that brings together Deaf and hard of hearing Australians in a multi-sport environment that enables all participants opportunities to compete to whatever level they aspire.

Both Newcastle and Lake Macquarie City Councils will jointly host this national major event together with support from the NSW Government.

Deaf Sports Australia and the Games Organising Committee are excited to announce that the Deaf Services and the Deaf Society have agreed to be the events Principal Games Sponsor; a relationship and partnership that aims to support community members of the Deaf and hard of hearing communities to achieve their goals, whether they be recreational , sport or well – being focused. This agreement means the 2022 Australian Games will be promoted as the Games sponsored by Deaf Services and Deaf Society.

Deaf Services and the Deaf Society officially merged in October 2020 to become the largest whole-of-life service provider for Deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing Australians.

The Games Organising Committee is appreciative of the trust and understanding that this partnership entails, which will see the games being a key event supported by the merged organisation. Togther we will be able to promote and highlight the essence of the Games and showcase the evolving strategic direction of this new entity.

Brett Casey, CEO of Deaf Services and the Deaf Society says that the games is an exciting opportunity to welcome the Australian Deaf community to NSW.

“After a year of isolation, the Australian Deaf Games will be an opportunity for the community to reengage face-toface in a celebration, not only of athletic, individual and team achievement, but also of community and resilience”, Mr Casey says.

“Deaf Services and the Deaf Society is excited to be a part of this event, and contributing to the legacy it will leave for the participants, and among Newcastle and Lack Macquarie locals.

“Through this support we also recognise the late Leonie Jackson, Executive Manager, Advocacy and Strategic Partnerships for Deaf Services and the Deaf Society. Leonie was a trailblazer for the Deaf community, a strong supporter of the Australian Deaf Games, and the Chair of the Games Organising Committee. We are proud to be supporting this event and honouring her memory.

Phil Harper, the acting Chair of the Australian Deaf Games organising Committee said that the “The history of the Games is synonymous with the involvement and support of our major deaf service organisations over the decades. The 2022 Games brings Deaf Services and the Deaf Society playing a major role in ensuring the Games are once again enjoyed and celebrated.”

This is a media release from Deaf Sports Australia.