Anne Mac Rae Technology Scheme (AMTRS)

What is the AMRTS?
The Anne Mac Rae Technology Scheme was started to increase Deaf people’s access to technology by providing a way to buy a computer cheaply.

Why is the name “The Anne Mac Rae Technology Scheme”?
The Scheme was named in honour of the late Anne Mac Rae who was a long serving Chief Executive of the Deaf Society who worked very hard for Deaf people.

How did AMRTS start?
Originally, IBM Australia donated 20 second-hand computers to The Deaf Society of NSW.

The Deaf Society wanted to make this equipment available for Deaf people to use in their own homes, but it needed expert technical assistance. So the Deaf Society asked Technical Aid to the Disabled (TAD) to help with the Scheme. TAD provides assistance to people with disabilities and providing low cost equipment.

How does the AMRTS work?

1.	An AMRTS Application Form must be filled out. To fill in the application form online, click here. To download and print a copy of the application form, click here.

2.	If you need help to fill out the application form a Deaf Society staff member can help you - come to Drop In. For information about Drop In, click here.

3.	You must answer every question, especially the question about current computer ownership (i.e. only people who do not already have computer equipment can apply).

4.	The cut off dates for applications are 31 March, 30 June, 30 September and 31 December each year.

5.	Applications are assessed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Deaf Society.

6.	The Deaf Society will let you know if you were successful by two weeks after the closing date.

7.	A computer and webcam costs $300.00. You must pay $100.00 towards the cost.

8.	You pay your $100.00 when you hand in your form to the Deaf Society Office. (If you come to Drop In to get help filling out the application form, bring the $100.00 with you to Drop In).

9.	If you can’t pay the $100.00 please let us know.

10.	TAD will contact you when your computer is ready for delivery.

All applications will be treated confidentially.

This is a joint project between The Deaf Society of NSW and Technical Aid to the Disabled NSW (TADNSW).

The information collected by The Deaf Society of NSW will be passed on to TADNSW to process your application. TADNSW discloses involved in the provision of this service. If you are giving personal information about another person (e.g. parent or friend) you should seek their permission beforehand and advise why you are disclosing their details to The Deaf Society of NSW and TADNSW. If you want to see a copy of the TADNSW or Deaf Society Privacy Policy contact the Deaf Society.

To download a copy of the Anne Mac Rae Technology Scheme Application Form, click here.