New Deaf Hub pilot opens in Mount Lawley

Perth’s Deaf community has a new dedicated place to meet, run events and connect, with a new Deaf Hub opening in Mount Lawley this week. Launched by Deaf Connect to coincide with National Week of Deaf People, the Perth Deaf Hub is located at Unit 1, 434 Lord Street and will operate as a pilot until April 2027. The space is separate from Deaf Connect’s existing Perth office and is free for the local community to use for activities, events, meetings and social catch-ups. The Hub has been developed with input from local organisations including the Western Australian Association of the Deaf, Western Australia Deaf Recreation Association and WA Deaf Seniors. Deaf Connect CEO Brett Casey said the project built on ideas explored in the organisation’s Deaf Space Report, released during National Week of Deaf People last year. “Deaf Space is more than just a physical environment. It’s a sense of belonging built around visual communication, inclusivity and Deaf identity,” Mr Casey said. “One year on from the launch of the report, we’re thrilled to see these ideas come to life in the Perth Deaf Hub – which is free to use, and has been rented by Deaf Connect for the local community.” Deaf Connect Program Coordinator Thomas Pell said the pilot would also help determine what the WA community wants from future Deaf Spaces. “This Hub gives us the opportunity to see what the community wants from Deaf Spaces in WA,” Mr Pell said. “It also helps us think about what Deaf Space could look like in other communities across Australia.” The opening forms part of National Week of Deaf People, running from Monday 21 to Sunday 27 September, which celebrates Deaf people, Deaf culture and the Australian Deaf community. The Perth Deaf Hub pilot will remain open until April 2027, head to deafconnect.org.au for more information. Image credit: Deaf Connect/Supplied Catch up on the most important headlines of the day with a roundup of essential WA stories, delivered to your inbox.