Manager and Owner

Deaf Indigenous Community Consultancy

Jody Barney is a proud Birri-Gubba/Urangan, South Sea Islander, Irish, Scottish Deaf woman. She is a dedicated professional committed to addressing systemic oppression and discrimination within the various services, departments and importantly the justice system. Her focus centers on research, training and consulting for First Nations Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals who use cultural sign language systems in Australia and globally.

She navigates the intersections of culture, identity, disability, social justice, and legal systems.?Respected for her commitment to communication access and advocacy.?Advocates tirelessly for national protocols in interpreter service delivery.?Ensures equitable access for First Nations Deaf people relying on cultural sign language systems. Developed a training program as an inaugural Senior Fellow for Social Equity in 2018.?Researched as a Churchill Fellow First Nations Global engagement on justice services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing First Nations peoples. Fosters relationships among urban, regional, rural, and remote First Nations Deaf people to identify needs and reduce incarceration rates.?Inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women (2021/2022) for outstanding contributions to Women with Disabilities. Awarded the Office of Public Advocate Victoria Award for 2024 for outstanding advocacy work for First Nations people with disabilities. Jody is currently the lead consultant at Deaf Indigenous Community Consultancy (deaficc.com.au).