What is Auslan?

Auslan is Australian Sign Language, the language of the Australian Deaf Community. Auslan is a distinct language, with its own grammar and syntax. Many people assume Auslan is simply English on the hands, however, it has its own lexicon and structure, conveying meaning through the use of distinctive handshapes, movements, facial expressions and the use of space.

Sign languages have evolved across the world where Deaf people live, work and interact. It is an essential organic language. Deaf people born to Deaf parents will learn the language from birth, others later in life alongside their parents, at school or as adults. Increasingly the wider community is actively learning Auslan in order to communicate freely and directly with Auslan users.