Alter State: First Nations Deaf and Disabled Yarning Circle

Building on the 2024 Yarning Circle, this next phase moves from connection-building into formalisation, creating space for reflection, cultural protocol, access, rest, relational care, and collective decision-making by and for First Nations Deaf and Disabled people.

The Yarning Circle will be developed through a residency at Arts Access Victoria prior to Alter State 2026. The process will be led by Disabled Elders, alongside delegates from the 2024 Yarning Circle. We welcome other First Nations Deaf and Disabled mob to attend as well. Attendance numbers will be subject to venue capacity.

Event focus

• Developing First Nations-led Principles and Foundations for Deaf and Disabled community practice

• Honouring cultural protocol, yarning methodologies, access, rest, and relational care

• Formalising community-determined values that reflect Deafness, disability, and Indigeneity

• Creating pathways for broader sector understanding, accountability, and engagement

Please note that Day 1 (Monday 30 November) is for First Nations mob only.

Day 2 (Tuesday 1 December) is open to Deaf and Disabled allies.

Both days run from 10 am - 5 pm at Arts Access Victoria's offices in South Melbourne. There will be a hybrid option (in-person and online) for the afternoon sessions. Zoom link will be emailed upon registration.

Arts Access Victoria is located on the ground floor of 222 Bank Street (cnr Fishley St), South Melbourne which is off Clarendon Street, just up from the South Melbourne Town Hall.

At the entrance there is a ramp with handrails to our reception area. Our toilets are fully accessible for wheelchair users.

This event is relaxed and Auslan Interpreted.

Service and Companion animals welcome.

Calm space available.

Find transport information on our website.

Please contact info@artsaccess.com.au for access enquiries.