The NSLP provides free sign language interpreting and captioning services for Deaf, Deafblind and hard of hearing older people.

The NSLP supports the communication needs of Deaf, Deafblind and hard of hearing older people to engage with aged care services, take part in professional and social activities, and from 1 July 2024, health and medical appointments that attract a Medicare rebate. 

Deaf Connect provides services 7 days a week, including emergencies and after business hours (if required). They include:

• face-to-face and video remote sign language interpreting
• sign language services include Auslan, First Nations languages, American Sign Language, International Sign Language, and Signed English
• tactile signing and hand-over-hand signing for deafblind people.
• live captioning either onsite or remotely.

Book services as soon as possible to make sure an interpreter or stenographer (captioning) is available through Deaf Connect.

For Individual Clients: 

If you are a client, you can make your own booking by contacting Deaf Connect. 

You do not need a booking code, but must register with Deaf Connect if you have not already done so. 

You can also ask your service provider or assessment organisation to book an interpreter or stenographer for you.

For Service Providers: 

As a service provider, you must register your organisation on the booking platform before contacting Deaf Connect to make an appointment for the first time.

Once registered, you will receive a booking code, which you must use each time you book an interpreting or captioning service.

Who is it for?

You can access the NSLP if you are:

• Deaf, Deafblind or hard of hearing 
• aged 65 years and older (50 or over for First Nations people)
• not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Your organisation is eligible to use the NSLP if you provide aged care services, including: 

• care finders
• Regional Assessment Services
• Aged Care Assessment Teams
• Commonwealth Home Support Programme
• Home Care Packages
• residential aged care
• other aged care services subsidised by the Australian Government.

• Phone: 1300 773 803
• Email: interpreting@deafconnect.org.au
• Website: https://deafconnect.org.au/services/interpreting/free-sign-language-interpreting-for-deaf-seniors#make-booking