Australian Deaf Games: Achieving sunshine moments together

Recognised as the pinnacle multi-sport event for deaf athletes in Australia, the Australian Deaf Games will transform the region into a vibrant hub of sport, culture and connection – celebrating deaf identity while showcasing elite and community competition across up to 20 sports.

First announced in 2023, following a successful bid by Sunshine Coast Council and Tourism and Events Queensland, the Games have been years in the making, with the region preparing to host one of the country’s most inclusive and culturally significant sporting festivals.

As a major sponsor and host city, Council is proud to support this nationally significant event.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the Games would celebrate the achievements of deaf athletes on a national stage while highlighting Council’s commitment to inclusion and accessibility.,

“It’s an opportunity to showcase our region as a welcoming place for everyone,” Mayor Natoli said.

“This event will also inject spending into our local economy, supporting accommodation providers, restaurants and cafes, retailers and tourism operators during the winter period.

“We look forward to seeing athletes achieve their own Sunshine moments together, both on and off the field.”

Minister for the Environment and Tourism, and Acting Minister for Sport and Racing and Acting Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Andrew Powell said securing the event further cemented Queensland as the nation’s sporting capital.

“We’re proud to back events like the Australian Deaf Games that put inclusion front and centre and give athletes the stage they deserve,” Minister Powell said.

“This is exactly the kind of major event that drives our visitor economy - bringing more than 11,000 visitor nights and a $2.5 million boost to local businesses across the Sunshine Coast.

“As we build towards Brisbane 2032, we’re investing in sport that’s inclusive, accessible and leaves a lasting legacy for communities across Queensland.”

Through Deaf Connect, a number of frontline businesses and venues have embraced the opportunity to build more inclusive visitor experiences in the lead up to the Games.  

Staff from Sunshine Coast Airport, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast and Caloundra RSL have undertaken Deaf Awareness Training, and staff at selected Council-operated venues have undertaken basic Auslan training, helping to ensure visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing feel welcomed and supported throughout their stay.  

This proactive approach is expected to leave a positive legacy for the region’s accessibility and customer service standards. 

A week of sport, pride and performance

In a joint statement, Games Ambassadors Jamie Howell, Caine Batten and Tegan Blanch shared their sentiment.

“The Australian Deaf Games are such a special moment for our community – it’s a place where deaf athletes can come together, compete, connect and celebrate who we are.

“For many of us, the Games have been a huge part of our journey in sport, and now to see them here on the Sunshine Coast is incredibly exciting.

“These Games are about pride, resilience, and inspiring the next generation of deaf athletes to get involved and believe in what’s possible.

“We can’t wait to see everyone come together to create unforgettable moments throughout the week.”

Competition will take place across multiple venues, including the Caloundra Indoor Stadium, Sunshine Coast Recreation Precinct at Currimundi and Kawana Sports Precinct, hosting sports such as basketball, netball, futsal, table tennis, pickleball and touch football.

With a full sports schedule now live, athletes will compete across medal and demonstration events throughout the week, delivering a dynamic program of competition that highlights both elite performance and grassroots participation.

An inclusive social program

Complementing the competition is an extensive social program designed to bring the Deaf community together and showcase the Sunshine Coast experience.

Across the week, participants can take part in activities including:

• The official Opening Ceremony at Caloundra Indoor Stadium
• Cultural experiences such as deaf Indigenous dance and Auslan-accessible tours
• Local tours and attractions like Australia Zoo, whale watching and coastal cruises
• The Closing Ceremony at Kings Beach Amphitheatre

These events reinforce the Games’ central theme of “Achieving Sunshine Moments Together”, celebrating connection, wellbeing and community beyond competition.

Spectator information

Spectators are welcome, tickets start from $20 for day passes and the Closing Ceremony at Kings Beach Amphitheatre, and from $25 for the Opening Ceremony at Caloundra Indoor Stadium.

Tickets can be purchased online via the ADG website.