There has been some recent updates from the Australian Government Department of Health, in regards to new sign language interpreting surfaces, read more below:
The updates were, that from November 2020, older Australian wo are deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing and do not have access to interpreting services can access free sign language interpreting services for daily activities.
These activities include:
- Family social events
- Banking
- Moving/selling house
- Dealing with agencies/advisors etc.
In the current times these services are available face-to-face as well as remotely.
How to access these services?
Clients will need to contact Auslan Connections Once registered you will receive a Department of Health booking code which can be used each time they book an interpreting service. Bookings can be made via the Auslan Connections websiteor by calling 1300 010 877.
Other Information:
Each client can access an average of 40 hours of interpreting services per year. Over the next six months usage will be monitored. A cap may be applied in the 2021-22 financial year.
Deaf or hard of hearing clients who are over 65 won’t be required to receive an aged care assessment if they are seeking to access interpreting services.
This new arrangement is in addition to the sign language interpreting services for older Australians who are receiving or want to access aged care services, as announced by the Minister on 17 June 2020.
Read the full announcement here: https://www.health.gov.au/news/announcements/new-sign-language-interpreting-service-0
