Auslan

Australian Sign Language — the language of the Australian Deaf community. The NDIS can fund Auslan-related supports.

What it means

Auslan, short for Australian Sign Language, is the sign language used by the Australian Deaf community. It is a complete language in its own right, with its own grammar, structure and vocabulary. It is not simply English spelled out on the hands or a signed version of spoken English. Auslan uses handshapes, movements, facial expressions and body language to convey meaning.

For many Deaf Australians, Auslan is their first or preferred language, and it plays a central role in how they communicate, connect with others and take part in their community. Auslan has regional variations across Australia, in the same way that spoken languages have different accents and expressions in different places.

In practice

The NDIS can fund Auslan-related supports where they relate to a person's disability and their goals. This might include Auslan interpreting so a person can take part in appointments, community activities or work, or Auslan training so a participant and the people around them can communicate more easily.

If Auslan supports would help you pursue your goals, it is worth raising them during your planning conversation. Being clear about how you communicate and what you need helps the NDIA understand the supports that are reasonable and necessary for you. Interpreting for NDIS-related conversations, such as planning meetings, may also be available so you can take part fully and be understood.

A real example

For example, Priya is Deaf and uses Auslan as her main way of communicating. Her NDIS plan includes funding for an Auslan interpreter so she can attend a weekly art class and take part in group discussions. With the interpreter there, Priya can follow the class, ask questions and get to know the other participants.

Auslan — FAQs

Can the NDIS fund an Auslan interpreter?
Yes. The NDIS can fund Auslan interpreting where it relates to your disability and helps you pursue your goals, such as taking part in community activities, learning or work. It is worth raising your communication needs during planning so the right supports can be considered. Separate arrangements may also cover interpreting for NDIS-related conversations like planning meetings.
Is Auslan the same as English?
No. Auslan is a distinct language with its own grammar, structure and vocabulary. It is not signed English or English spelled out letter by letter. Auslan uses handshapes, movement, facial expression and body language to convey meaning, and for many Deaf Australians it is their first or preferred language rather than a version of English.
Can the NDIS fund Auslan training?
It can, where the training relates to your disability and goals. For example, funding might support a participant, and sometimes the people around them, to learn Auslan so they can communicate more easily in everyday life. Explain during planning why learning Auslan would help you, so the NDIA can consider whether the support is reasonable and necessary for you.
How do I ask for Auslan supports in my plan?
Raise your communication needs during your planning conversation. Explain that Auslan is your first or preferred language and describe the situations where you need interpreting or other support to pursue your goals. Being specific about what helps you take part fully makes it easier for the NDIA to understand and consider the supports that are reasonable and necessary.
Does Auslan vary across Australia?
Yes. Auslan has regional variations, much like spoken languages have different accents and expressions in different areas. Signs can differ between states and communities, but Deaf people across Australia generally understand one another. When arranging interpreting, it can help to mention any regional preferences so communication is as clear and comfortable as possible for you.

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