A Pioneer of Human Rights

December 1, 2020 marked 100 years since our pioneering founder, Frederick John Rose, passed away. Fondly known as FJ Rose, he is recognised as the great trailblazer of education for the Deaf not only in Victoria but across Australia — a humble man whose remarkable achievements continue to support and inspire. He died at the age of 89, and to mark the centenary of his passing, Deaf Children Australia produced a video that explores the life and legacy of its founder, featuring archival material and illuminating interviews with past students, as well as Teachers of the Deaf.

Our Bluestone Building

Deaf Children Australia was established in 1862 in response to the needs of a deaf child and her family. It was then known as the Victorian Deaf and Dumb Institute. Our Bluestone Building was built in 1866 and has been the home of Deaf Education and support for deaf children and youth ever since. DCA supports the Victorian College for the Deaf, who continue to educate children at 597 St Kilda Road, Melbourne.

Learn of key historical events on our timeline. We recommend you use the latest version of Firefox or Chrome to view the timeline — you'll be able to access all of the content available either in 2D (left-right) or in 3D (forward-backward); simply click the 3D/2D button at the bottom left to switch between view types.

To view images of our historical items, please visit Victorian Collections.