Free interpreting support available for older people
22 Sep 2026
Through the National Sign Language Program (NSLP), eligible older people can receive communication support in the language or method that works best for them. This helps people understand important information and take part in decisions about their care.
The service is being highlighted during National Week of Deaf People, held from 21–27 September, and International Sign Language Day on 23 September.
The NSLP provides free communication services, including:
- Face-to-face and video interpreting
- Auslan and First Nations sign language services
- Tactile and hand-over-hand signing for Deafblind people
- Live captioning, both onsite and remotely
Support is available every day of the week, including outside normal business hours and during emergencies when needed.
Eligible older people can use the service for aged care assessments and care planning, Medicare-rebateable health and medical appointments, banking and housing matters, and cultural, community and social activities.
To arrange a service, aged care providers first need to register with Deaf Connect and receive a booking code. The same code can then be used when making future bookings.
Free interpreting support available for older people
Source: Australian Government Department of Health / Disability and Ageing