Some people with disability may require reasonable adjustments at an interview, for example, if the job seeker is Deaf, they may require an Auslan (Australian Sign Language) interpreter to be present at the interview.
What is Auslan?
Auslan is the language of the Deaf community in Australia and is short for Australian Sign Language. Auslan is based on one and two handed signs and incorporates a two-handed alphabet (finger spelling). Around 10 000 Deaf Australians currently use Auslan as their community language. Auslan interpreters are able to interpret Auslan into spoken English and spoken English back into Auslan.
The interview process
Reasonable adjustments enable the job seeker to have equal opportunity throughout the recruitment and interview process. You can support the job seeker and the employer by:
- discussing the particular needs of the job seeker with the employer prior to the interview
- helping the employer and job seeker arrange an interpreter for the interview
- providing the employer with information about communicating through an Auslan interpreter (such as directing questions to the job seeker rather than the interpreter)
- discussing information about deaf awareness training or providing awareness training for the employer.
The following fact sheets may be useful for the employer:
Auslan interpreters
To locate a supplier of Auslan interpreting services in your state or territory, click on the following link:
If you cannot find an Auslan interpreter in your area, contact the JobAccess Advisers on 1800 464 800.
You should also be aware that interpreters are typically available for a minimum two hour booking. Interpreting work that lasts for more than an hour or is particularly intense usually requires a team of two interpreters.
See our Related Links for more information on Auslan interpreters, including interpreter standards, the accreditation process, the role and conduct of interpreters and interpreter skills in various settings.
Auslan interpreting on the job
If the job seeker is successful at the interview, the employer may be eligible for financial assistance for Auslan services in the workplace through the Auslan For Employment programme. Assistance is also available for your co-workers to attend introductory deaf awareness training and Auslan courses.
Please call the JobAccess Advisers for more information on 1800 464 800 or use the link below: