Deaf awareness training is provided by trainers who are either Deaf or have experience working within the Deaf community. Deaf awareness training provides information on issues such as:
- how to best communicate with persons with varying levels of deafness
- awareness of Deaf culture and an understanding of living with deafness
- introduction to Auslan which is the language of the Deaf community of Australia
- any particular Deaf issues of relevance to the situation
- access to information, services and funding programs available for the Deaf.
Deaf awareness training can be presented in workshop style small group settings or if this is not possible, audio or video tapes can be used for internal training purposes. If none of these options are suitable, specific advice can be sought from the relevant state or territory Deaf society.
Workplace solutions and adjustments:
For employers, employing a person who is Deaf can sometimes create uncertainty about the most appropriate way in which to communicate with the employee, along with ensuring they are safe and able to respond to direction and emergency alarms within the workplace. To assist the worker, the employer and colleagues, deaf awareness training can be undertaken with a qualified trainer to clarify these issues and open communication pathways.
Financial assistance for deaf awareness training is available through the Employment Assistance Fund to employers of eligible Deaf employees. Funding is also available under this program for interpreting within the workplace for workplace inductions, skill development, performance reviews, occupational health and safety training, workplace meetings and job interviews. Please call the JobAccess Advisers for more information on 1800 464 800 or use the link below to confirm eligibility and submit online applications:
For more sources on Auslan interpreters, please see the links below:
References:
Hearing Therapy Australia 2007, Deafness Awareness, Hearing Therapy Australia, Perth, viewed 11 December 2011, http://hearingtherapyaustralia.com/info/da.html.
WA Deaf Society Inc. (no date specified), Auslan for Employment, WA Deaf Society Inc., Perth, viewed 11 December 2011, <http://www.wadeaf.org.au/media/docs/Auslan_For_Employment_Brochure.pdf>.