Your journey starts here
From grassroots rugby to international representation — Australian Deaf Rugby provides pathways for deaf and hard-of-hearing athletes across Australia.
Start where you are
Whether you are new to rugby or already playing at club level, Australian Deaf Rugby can help you take the next step.
We work with schools, deaf community organisations and local rugby clubs across Australia to introduce players to the game and support their development. Our goal is to ensure every deaf and hard-of-hearing athlete has access to opportunity — regardless of experience level.
If you’re keen to play, we can help connect you with a local club and guide you through the pathway towards state and national representation.
We work with schools, deaf community organisations and local rugby clubs across Australia to introduce players to the game and support their development. Our goal is to ensure every deaf and hard-of-hearing athlete has access to opportunity — regardless of experience level.
If you’re keen to play, we can help connect you with a local club and guide you through the pathway towards state and national representation.
State Representation
Australian Deaf Rugby is building strong state-based programs that form the foundation of our national pathway.
Athletes have the opportunity to represent their state at major events including the Australian Deaf Games and the Oceania Deaf Games, held every four years. These competitions may include 7s, 10s and 15s formats and provide a significant platform for development and exposure.
State representation is an important step in the journey towards national selection, while also strengthening connection within the local Australian deaf sporting community.
National Representation
Australian Deaf Rugby selects national men’s and women’s teams to represent Australia in 7s, 10s and 15s formats — both domestically and internationally.
Our national program includes regular training camps, selection trials and international tours. The Deaf Rugby World Cup is held every four years, alongside test matches and global competitions that bring together the world’s best deaf athletes.
Selection is based on performance, commitment and alignment with our team standards. Representing Australia is both an honour and a responsibility — one that reflects dedication, pride and excellence.
Our national program includes regular training camps, selection trials and international tours. The Deaf Rugby World Cup is held every four years, alongside test matches and global competitions that bring together the world’s best deaf athletes.
Selection is based on performance, commitment and alignment with our team standards. Representing Australia is both an honour and a responsibility — one that reflects dedication, pride and excellence.
Eligibility
To participate in Australian Deaf Rugby domestic programs, athletes must have a hearing loss of at least 40 decibels (dB) in one ear.
For international competition — including Deaf Rugby World Cups and other officially sanctioned events — athletes must meet international eligibility criteria, which currently require a minimum hearing loss of 40 decibels (dB) in both ears.