NextSense Centre for Innovation opens in Macquarie Park, ushering in a new era of accessibility

The NextSense Centre for Innovation officially opened its doors in Macquarie Park innovation district with a key event on 6th August, marking a significant milestone in advancing accessibility for individuals with hearing and vision loss. 

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the landmark facility in the presence of guests including Federal Member for Bennelong Jerome Laxale and prior Member for Bennelong, John Howard. The opening of the centre celebrates a pivotal moment in fostering inclusivity and driving innovation within the health sector. 

In his inaugural address, Prime Minister Albanese emphasised the strategic importance of the centre’s location.  

“The centre will provide the platform for training and service programs to be delivered globally with increased innovation and collaboration with the Australian Hearing Hub with Cochlear, and Hearing Australia and a cluster of research, education and healthcare providers all co-located within the Macquarie Park Innovation District.” he stated. 

The NextSense Centre for Innovation is Australia’s second oldest not-for-profit organisation and has been around for over 164 years.  This $75 million state-of-the-art facility is designed specifically for individuals with hearing and vision loss, showcasing the organisation’s most ambitious project to date. 

NextSense Chief Executive Chris Rehn said:  

“This new centre is an important investment in removing barriers for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind or have low vision.  It is a nationally significant piece of social infrastructure that will cement the leading role Australia already plays on the world stage in hearing and vision service delivery and research. We welcome the Australian Government’s significant financial support of $12.5million to this project – it will change lives and create new opportunities for the way education and services are delivered to all people with sensory disability.” 

Located within the Macquarie University precinct, the centre prioritises accessibility and enhances connectivity with key partners. The new facility ncorporaties advanced equipment and spaces tailored for individuals with hearing and vision loss. Features include superior acoustic standards, wayfinding braille signage, and high-contrast walls and furniture designed to improve depth perception and usability. 

The NextSense Centre for Innovation is set to advance educational opportunities for children with sensory impairments across Australia and will scale up to address the growing demand for both in-person and remote support. Its opening marks a new chapter in delivering high-quality, accessible services to the community and we are excited to host them in Macquarie Park innovation district.