WHo ARe we?
Access Plus WA Deaf is a profit for purpose charity organisation whose core purpose is to foster a community of communication without limits.
We deliver on this goal through our various service arms including;
Access Interpreting – for Auslan interpreting,
Access MyLife – for Community Services,
Access MyTraining – for Auslan courses and
Access MyNDIS – for information and referral services.
As a bilingual, diverse and multicultural organisation, Access Plus WA Deaf places access for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at the centre of everything we do.
PURPOSE AND VALUES
PURPOSE
Access Plus WA Deaf works to foster a community of communication without limits.
VALUES
• Community – using culture & history to build upon differences and similarities that bind us together
• Access – providing opportunities & developing partnerships
• Inclusion – offering services & activities for ALL people impacted by communication barriers
• Progress – embracing change & seeking opportunities to strengthen our future
MANTRA
Access Plus’ Purpose and Values expresses what the organisation aspires to become and achieve, a contemporary organisation for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people.
The Mantra of “Access for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at the centre of everything we do” identifies and realises those core values and purpose.
Our History
Prior to 1921, there were no formal facilities or premises for Deaf people in WA. Informal gatherings often took place at the Levitzke family bakery in Midland. On 9 July 1921, twelve Deaf people met at the home of R.B. Jeffrey’s parents at 47 Railway Parade, Mt Lawley. It was at this meeting that a committee was formed.
The Society was recognised by the Register of Companies on the 31 January 1930 as the “The Western Australian Adult Deaf and Dumb Society”.
During an Annual General Meeting on 28 September 1968, a majority vote by members led to the Society being renamed as ‘The Western Australian Deaf Society’.
The Society began a strategic review process in 2015 and as a result of the feedback received determined that a brand refresh was required to support its strategic direction to diversify service offerings, strengthen existing and develop new partnerships, and ensure access to more services. In 2018 the new brand of AccessPlus WA Deaf was launched.