The Territory Labor Government has secured an Auslan Interpreter for the Northern Territory.
The NAATI accredited interpreter, Paula Bun has begun this week and will offer support to clients across the Territory.
As the world deals with the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important that information is accessible.
The Territory Labor Government will fund a fulltime interpreter for at least the next three years. Deaf Connect (formerly Deaf Services and the Deaf Society) will provide the interpreter.
The local Auslan Interpreter will provide support for Deaf Territorians across a range of situations, including in delivery of government services, in health, education and justice. In addition it will provide support for families and public messaging during emergencies, such as COVID-19.
Work is also underway to finalise the Auslan scholarship program participants, so that we can grow our own qualified Auslan interpreters across the Territory.
Quotes from Chief Minister Michael Gunner:
“Having access to current information is the right of all Territorians.
“There are more than 230 Territorians who are Deaf or hard of hearing. Having an Auslan Interpreter based in the NT will provide support for deaf and hard of hearing Territorians across a range of government services.”
“The recent COVID-19 lockdowns have highlighted the need to have Auslan Interpreter in the NT to deliver important public messages.”
Quotes from Brett Casey, CEO Deaf Connect:
“We are pleased to see that our work with the Northern Territory Government has so quickly resulted in a tangible outcome for Deaf Territorians. We welcome the government’s commitment to equality among their constituents through the funding of this critical program
“The availability of an on-site Auslan interpreter will unlock the capacity within the Deaf community through equitable access to information many hearing people take for granted.
“The successful interpreter joins the growing Deaf Connect team in the Territory, reflecting our commitment to addressing the range of identified needs within the local community.”
