Auslan is the Australian sign language for Deaf people. Auslan is accepted by the Federal Government as a community language, “with a distinct culture, recognised by shared history, social life and sense of identity.” Many Deaf people see themselves not as disabled, but as part of their own distinct culture and language group.
The engagement of Auslan Interpreters by the Victorian arts sector – for example at events, festivals, theatre and stage productions and exhibitions – is slowly increasing, however, people who have Auslan as their first language remain a largely untapped audience.
“The Auslan Interpreter was awesome at Hannah Gadsby. It has been a long time since I have seen the Deaf community laugh in unison with the hearing audience. Brilliance personified!” – Tamina Kelly
Download Get the Facts: Auslan to find out how you can provide equal access to Deaf audiences.
The engagement of Auslan Interpreters by the Victorian arts sector—for example at events, festivals, theatre and stage productions and exhibitions—is slowly increasing. However, people who have Auslan as their first language remain a largely untapped audience.
One in six Australians have hearing loss. Auslan users enjoy participating in the arts with family and friends as audience and individually as artists. However, in the past they have often been excluded from full participation by lack of access.
Auslan Interpreter services provide equal access to arts and entertainment for people who are Deaf, their friends and families. This access service delivers compliance with Australia’s anti-discrimination and human rights laws.
Smartphone Auslan applications are available for use at live performances and similar events.
“When I look through a program or website, I’m looking for performances and events that are accessible for me. I won’t read through all of the listings to look Auslan Interpreted shows. Seeing the access symbols tells me instantly whether an event is accessible or not.” – Mija Gwyn
Auslan services
Venues and companies offering regular Auslan.
Other useful links