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More Than Sport: 2026’s Australian Deaf Games
The Australian Deaf Games bring together deaf and hard of hearing people from across the country to compete, connect and celebrate Deaf culture. While sport is at the heart of the event, the Games also provide something much greater: a strong sense of community, identity and belonging.
For Laura, attending the 2026 Australian Deaf Games as a netball player was an unforgettable experience.
“My experience attending the Australian Deaf Games as a netball player was fantastic,” Laura said. “It was much more than just a sporting event. It was an opportunity to reconnect with friends, meet new people, and be part of a community that understands and celebrates who we are.”
A welcoming and inclusive atmosphere
Throughout the Games, Laura experienced an atmosphere filled with energy, excitement and community pride.
“The atmosphere throughout the Games was welcoming, inclusive and full of energy,” she said. “There was a real sense of excitement and pride, with everyone supporting one another both on and off the court.”
This support extended beyond the athletes. Families, friends, volunteers, officials and community members all contributed to creating an environment where people could participate and connect in ways that felt accessible and inclusive.
Creating a sense of belonging
For many deaf and hard of hearing people, the Australian Deaf Games provide a valuable opportunity to be surrounded by others who share similar experiences.
“The sense of belonging at the Australian Deaf Games is incredibly important,” Laura said. “We all share a common understanding and connection, regardless of our level of hearing loss.”
“Being surrounded by people who communicate and connect in similar ways makes everyone feel accepted and included.”
This sense of belonging can be particularly meaningful for children and young people who may not regularly have opportunities to meet other deaf and hard of hearing people.
Laura met many hearing families who attended the Games with their deaf or hard of hearing children. These families wanted their children to experience the Deaf community and develop a stronger sense of connection and identity.
“The Games provide families with an opportunity to see what is possible and to feel supported and encouraged within the community,” she said.
Celebrating Deaf culture and identity
The Australian Deaf Games celebrate more than sporting achievement. They also create a space where Deaf culture, language, identity and community can be recognised and shared.
Social events and activities were available for people of different ages, backgrounds and interests, including children, young people, adults, families and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
“There were social events and activities that catered to a wide range of people, all with accessibility at the forefront,” Laura said. “It created a space where Deaf culture could be celebrated and shared by everyone.”
Through these events, participants could build friendships, reconnect with familiar faces and strengthen relationships across the wider community.
Positive role models for the next generation
The Games also give children and young people the opportunity to see deaf and hard of hearing athletes, officials, volunteers and community leaders succeeding in a range of roles.
Laura believes this representation is one of the most important lessons people can take from the event.
“People can learn so much from the Deaf Games,” she said. “They see how the deaf and hard of hearing community connects, communicates, and shares a love of sport and community.”
“They also witness the importance of representation, with so many positive deaf and hard of hearing role models for children and young people.”
Seeing these role models can help young people feel more confident about their own identity, abilities and future opportunities.
Why events like the Deaf Games matter
Events such as the Australian Deaf Games play an important role in strengthening the visibility and connection of the Deaf community.
“They are not just sporting competitions,” Laura said. “They are significant cultural, social and community events for deaf and hard of hearing people across Australia.”
“They provide opportunities for connection, inclusion and pride, and help build a stronger and more visible Deaf community.”
Supporting accessible events helps ensure that deaf and hard of hearing people continue to have spaces where they can participate fully, celebrate their achievements and connect with others.
Looking to the future
Although Laura is retiring from competitive sport, her connection to the Australian Deaf Games will continue.
“The Australian Deaf Games will always remain an important part of my life,” she said. “Moving forward, I hope to continue attending as an official or simply in a social capacity, staying connected with the community that has given me so many wonderful memories and experiences.”
For anyone considering attending a future Australian Deaf Games, Laura’s message is simple:
“Come and see what it’s all about. Don’t be afraid that you won’t fit in.”
“The Australian Deaf Games is a welcoming and inclusive event, and there is something for everyone, whether you’re competing, supporting, volunteering, or simply wanting to connect with the community.”
Laura’s experience demonstrates that the Australian Deaf Games are about much more than competition. They are about connection, representation and celebrating a community where everyone has the opportunity to belong.
