Increased funding and support announced for Auslan users
14 April 2023Duration 2:09
Changes to the Employment Assistance Fund for Auslan April 2023
On 13 April 2023, Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth made an announcement about changes to the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) for Auslan interpreting.
Job seekers who use Auslan as their primary or preferred language will receive an increase in assistance available for Auslan interpreting services.
Under the changes, the funding cap for interpreting services for work-related activities will double from $6,000 to $12,000 annually, the first increase since 2010.
Additional updates to the EAF include enabling job seekers to seek reimbursements for Auslan interpreting services for job interviews and related activities up to five business days after the service.
Previously, job seekers could only lodge an application for interview related activities to the EAF before purchasing services.
For more information on the EAF and how to apply, please visit www.jobaccess.gov.au or call JobAccess on 1800 464 800.
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth announced positive changes to the Australian Government’s Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) for Auslan users today.
One of the notable changes is an increase in annual funding for Auslan Level 1 interpreting from $6,000 to $12,000. This will enable Auslan users to access interpreting services at work more often.
Additionally, Auslan Level 2 applications for job interviews can be lodged up to five business days after the interview. It will allow Deaf candidates and employers to access Auslan services without slowing the hiring process.
Auslan (or Australian Sign Language) is a visual-spatial language. It uses hand gestures, facial expressions, and body language to convey meaning. Auslan is a unique language that is specific to the Australian Deaf community.
Auslan provides Deaf people with an accessible means of communication. It allows them to take part in all aspects of society, including employment.
Today's announcement shows the Government's commitment to improving funding available through the EAF. It will support Deaf people in accessing the communication services they need to get work, keep working and progress in their careers.
JobAccess facilitates workplace adjustments, including Auslan interpreting services, through the EAF. The program helps remove workplace barriers to the employment of people with disability.
JobAccess provides Australians with disability and employers with vital support through expert advice and resources on disability employment. Since 2006, JobAccess has managed over 67,000 EAF applications to implement workplace adjustments.
Visit the JobAccess website for more information about the EAF.
Read Minster Rishworth's announcement.
Last updated: