Published date: 6 June 2024
From 1 July 2024, Deaf, Deafblind, and hard of hearing older people will be able to access sign language interpreting for health and medical appointments through the National Sign Language Program (NSLP).
These services are moving from the Continuity of Support for the National Auslan Interpreter Booking and Payment Service (CoS for NABS) that ends 30 June 2024.
The expanded NSLP will build on existing supports for aged care and other professional and social settings. For example, banking, attending weddings, funerals, clubs, and cultural activities.
The expanded program will remain free of charge, with all services delivered by Deaf Connect.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible, you must be:
- Deaf, Deafblind, or hard of hearing
- 65 years and over (50 years and over for First Nations people)
- not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Contact Deaf Connect now to book an interpreter for appointments after 30 June 2024.
Learn more
To learn more about the expansion of the National Sign Language Program, visit the Department of Health and Aged Care’s website.
You can find out more about accessible aged care services on our Accessible for all page.
Last updated date: 20 November 2024
