Staff from across the Department have completed an eight-week Auslan course, learning practical skills to build confidence communicating with Deaf and hard-of-hearing colleagues and the community using Auslan.
Participants came from several business areas, including Court and Tribunal Services, the Office of the Public Advocate, Strategic Reform and Corrective Services. The course was delivered by Deaf Connect.
For Senior Payroll Officer Janus, participating in the course had a personal motivation.
“We have a deaf colleague on our team, and I really wanted to be able to communicate a lot more clearly with her and have more in-depth conversations in Auslan,” he said.
Manager Treatment Assessment Dr Menna Gower said the course provided a positive and supportive learning environment for staff to build their confidence.
“Being able to engage with people, whether it’s introducing yourself or talking about life, is so beneficial. That’s the basis of connection.”
For Teresa Chien from the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages, the course helped her communicate more effectively in her customer-facing role.
“We have all kinds of applicants that come into the registry office. So, I felt trying something out like this would offer some more options for people. And I feel it certainly would.”
Deputy Director General and Executive Sponsor for People with Disability Joanne Stampalia said the course reflected Justice’s commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is included.
“Learning Auslan supports a more accessible and inclusive workplace, so that our staff are better able to provide services to the community,” Ms Stampalia said.
