Community of Practice Meetings

These meetings are a means of staying in touch with other O&M specialists around Australasia to share resources, knowledge and experience outside of our organisations. The Membership Engagement Committee will be running these meetings quarterly with different topics to be covered in each session. Registered OMAA Members who attend live are eligible to receive 1 COMS continuing education point per CoP Meeting; please read below for more details.

 

Upcoming meetings for 2026

 

COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE MEETING 1 – Emerging Tools in O&M

Tuesday 17 March 2026, 1.30pm – 3.00pm (AEST)

Join us for our first Community of Practice for 2026 and connect with O&M colleagues from across the regions as we explore new and emerging technologies. Staying informed about what is entering the market helps us respond to client questions, make balanced recommendations, and support informed choice in our practice.

This session will feature guest presenters who are closely involved in developing two innovative products. As with any new technology, our aim is to learn about what is available, consider potential applications, and critically reflect together on where these tools may or may not fit within O&M practice.

WeWALK Smart Cane

Learn about the latest model featuring an ergonomic smart handle with built-in obstacle detection, Bluetooth connectivity, audio feedback, and a voice assistant for hands-free control. Developed in collaboration with blind users and O&M professionals, the WeWALK system also integrates with the WeWALK mobile app to provide navigation and mobility tools designed to support safer, more confident, and more independent travel.

ASHIRASE

Discover this unique shoe-mounted navigation device that guides users through gentle vibration feedback. Hands-free and ears-free, ASHIRASE fits inside the shoe and intuitively indicates direction through vibration, enabling independent mobility without relying on vision or sound. Already in use by hundreds of people in Japan, this technology offers a different approach to accessible navigation.

We will also include:

  • What is happening around our regions
  • Updates from the Professional Development Committee
  • Updates from the Professional Standards Committee
  • Opportunities to share practical tips and experiences with colleagues

Date: Tuesday 17 March 2026

Time:
ADST: 1.30pm – 3.00pm
QLD: 12.30pm – 2.00pm
SA: 1.00pm – 2.30pm
WA: 10.30am – 12.00pm
NZ: 3.30pm – 5.00pm
Zoom Meeting Link

We look forward to seeing you there and kicking off 2026 with some great conversations about O&M and technology!

 

 

COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE MEETING 2

Tuesday 19 May 2026, 1.30pm – 3.00pm (AEST)

 

COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE MEETING 3

Tuesday 18 August 2026, 1.30pm – 3.00pm (AEST)

 

COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE MEETING 4

Tuesday 17 November 2026, 1.30pm – 3.00pm (AEST)

 

Claim COMS credits

COMS Points

Join our Community of Practice meetings and you will receive 1 COMS point for each one you attend! Please note: you must attend the meeting in person to be awarded the point.

Below we have clarified the process for receiving a certificate for your CE points if you are COMS and are wanting those points.

The final CoP in 2023 was a registered event for ACVREP however others in 2023 were not so are not eligible for the 1 CE point. We are expecting each CoP meeting will attract 1 CE point going forward if there is a relevant topic.

To make life a little easier for your volunteer Professional Development committee we have decided to issue certificates at the end of the 2024 calendar year which will include the CoP at the end of 2023 as well. If you would like a certificate with your attendance and CE points noted you will need to reach out to us at that time (there will be a reminder nearer the time).

If your ACVREP renewal is due before that and you need the certificate early, please reach out by emailing engagement@omaaustralasia.com

We keep a track at each CoP meeting who is in attendance. It is helpful if you have your full name on the zoom so that we can keep track easily. Thanks for your cooperation with this.

 

Past meetings

Missed the last meeting? See below for recordings of past meetings.

 

Feedback

Have a suggestion for an upcoming topic, or other feedback? Email the Membership Engagement Committee at engagement@omaaustralasia.com