Published on: 13th April 2026
13 April 2026. Deaf Connect is calling on people across the nation to mark Auslan Day 2026 by learning Australian Sign Language (Auslan) and connecting with their local Deaf community.
Observed annually on 13 April, Auslan Day has been celebrated by Australia’s Deaf community since the creation of the first Auslan Dictionary in 1989.
Deaf Connect CEO Brett Casey said Auslan Day 2026 is both a celebration and a call to action for communities to be more inclusive of Deaf Australians.
“This Auslan Day, we’re inviting people to think about what inclusion looks like in practice. It could be a business becoming more Deaf aware, people enrolling in an Auslan course, or simply learning a few signs,” Mr Casey said.
“Each year, more than 4,000 students learn Auslan through Deaf Connect. This growing number shows that Australians are increasingly utilising inclusive communication in their everyday lives.
“By getting involved this Auslan Day, we can bring Deaf accessibility into every conversation.”
Deaf Connect Auslan Teacher Carley Logan said that Auslan Day is an opportunity for locals to learn more about Deaf language, culture, and history.
“I’m passionate about inspiring others and raising awareness, and it’s a privilege to be part of a team dedicated to making a positive impact through communication and compassion,” Ms Logan said.
“Students on their Auslan journey come from diverse backgrounds, including parents wanting to communicate with their children, healthcare professionals like nurses and doctors, teachers, and those in the hospitality industry. There is no single demographic group that does not benefit from learning Auslan, highlighting its importance in building inclusive and understanding communities.
“I admire the expressions of understanding and passion that students display when they grasp new concepts. Their enthusiasm fuels my own passion for training more Auslan Interpreters. Increasing the number of qualified interpreters ensures better access and fewer barriers for the Deaf community.”
Deaf Connect has produced an Auslan Day Resource Kit for those seeking to celebrate this occasion, such as schools, workplaces and local community groups. It includes a printable poster, ready-to-post social tiles, an email banner, and tips for communicating with Deaf colleagues.
ENDS
Media Opportunities:
For all media enquiries contact: Gabrielle Strosberg, Deaf Connect External Communications Specialist: [email protected] or 0428 071 733
Deaf Connect CEO Brett Casey and CSO Brent Phillips are available to be interviewed and provide comments. Deaf Connect offers interpreting for Auslan representation across all media.
ABOUT DEAF CONNECT
Deaf Connect is a national not-for-profit organisation for Deaf Australians and those who communicate in Auslan (Australian Sign language). The organisation’s mission is to stand with Deaf Australians, build capacity and influence social change.
Deaf Connect is Australia’s largest employer of Deaf people and a national leader in Auslan interpreting and sign language education through its Registered Training Organisation (RTO Provider Number 41192). Deaf Connect’s work is supported by fundraising generated through the Deaf Lottery.
