Honouring 30+ years of impact: deafConnectEd
Following 30+ years of supporting inclusion and access for Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing (DHH) learners in the Victorian vocational education and training (VET) sector, the services provided by deafConnectED concluded at the end of 2025.
Commencing in 1993 as the Centre of Excellence for Students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and under the auspices of Melbourne Polytechnic (formerly NMIT) the centre was established to deliver foundation skills courses for DHH students who otherwise faced barriers and exclusion in accessing post-secondary school education and training and employment opportunities. The role of the centre was then expanded to include strategic projects and partnerships with other services in VET.
30+ years of contributions and achievements
Over a more than 30-year history, deafConnectED has made the following key contributions:
- initiating research that documented the needs of DHH learners, improving awareness of barriers and influencing the development of required support services
- designing and delivering a range of professional development activities for VET staff to support them in working with DHH learners
- developing innovative, Deaf-led education opportunities that have continued to model best practice in meeting the needs of DHH learners.
These contributions and milestones have supported the maturation of the VET sector and created an environment where DHH learners can achieve their study goals and secure meaningful employment upon completion.
Throughout 2025, MP lead consultations with stakeholders to ensure a seamless transition for DHH learners following the centre’s wind down.
The legacy of deafConnectED will continue through the work of partners in the sector including The Gordon’s Centre of Excellence in Disability Inclusion, the TAFE Disability Liaison Officer and Disability Transition Officer networks, the Skills and Jobs Centres and other TAFE networks and services.
Following the wind down of the deafConnectED program, Melbourne Polytechnic will continue to manage the wealth of resources available through the deafConnectED website. It will also support the continued delivery of professional development activities by the VET Development Centre for staff working with DHH learners.
Melbourne Polytechnic would like to thank the many people who have contributed to the success of deafConnecED over the years. We acknowledge the past and present staff of deafConnectED who have worked with dedication and in collaboration with the community and students, to strengthen participation and outcomes for DHH learners in TAFE. Their commitment has helped transform educational and employment pathways, creating life-changing opportunities for DHH learners across Victoria.
An Auslan version of this news story is available on the deafConnectED website.