What is Auslan Day?

Auslan Day celebrates the rich history, culture, community and language of the Australian Deaf community by honouring the date of first publication of the Auslan dictionary.

Auslan Day is an initiative of Deaf Australia.

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What is Auslan?

Auslan is the language of the Australian Deaf Community. Auslan is a portmanteau, a word made up by combining the words Australian Sign Language.

Did you know that Auslan or Australian Sign Language has been used in Australia since the 1900s. Whilst it is hard to pinpoint the date when Auslan was first used, there is evidence of signing Deaf people in Australia going back to 1820s.

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Use our Auslan GIFs!

To celebrate Auslan Day, we have created some Auslan GIFs that you can use across social media via GIPHY.com.

These GIFs can be used anywhere on Social Media via GIPHY.com.

Do you have some suggestions of more Auslan GIFs we should make, let us know by emailing [email protected]. We will continue to grow this collection throughout the year and want your feedback!

View the Deaf Connect Auslan GIFs
Deaf Connect GIFs

Auslan Storytime

Can’t get enough Auslan? Join free, interactive storytelling sessions led by a Deaf presenter in their primary language, serving as a positive role model for young Deaf and hard of hearing children and fostering early literacy development.  

 You can catch an Auslan Day session on the 13th April in Townsville and a school holiday session on the 27th of April in Fairfield.  

Learn more
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Download our Auslan Bookmark and Poster

We have created a Bookmark and poster that you can download and print complete with the Auslan alphabet to help you practice your Auslan fingerspelling.

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Activities for Children

Earlier this year as part of the Australian Deaf Games, we launched a Children’s Activity Book and Poster. 

Enjoy pages of activities and fun! Learn the Auslan signs for various sports!



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More activities and resources

Head to Deaf Australia for more information about Auslan Day and events.  

Also, Deaf Australia have a fun video competition. Share your amusing misadventures while navigating the world of Deaf people or Auslan for a chance to win a cash prize. 

Deaf Australia Website
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Auslan Day Events

ONLINE

Exploring Insights from Master of Applied Deaf Studies

Free Event – RSVP Essential
ONLINE
Deaf Connect Event