About the NSLP
The NSLP is an Australian Government program run by Deaf Connect. It provides free:
- face-to-face and video remote sign language interpreting
- sign language services, such as 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 onsite or remotely.
NSLP services are available 7 days a week, including outside business hours and during emergencies when required.
Supporting communication rights
The Aged Care Act 2024 includes a Statement of Rights that recognises every older person's right to communicate in the language or method they prefer and to receive information in a way they understand. Older people also have the right to participate in decisions about their care.
Aged care providers must take reasonable and proportionate steps to act in line with the Statement of Rights when delivering aged care services.
Accessible, person-centred communication helps ensure older people can:
- understand their services
- express their preferences
- make informed decisions about their care.
The NSLP is one way providers can meet the communication needs of Deaf, Deafblind and hard of hearing older people.
Who can use the NSLP
A person can use the NSLP if they are:
- Deaf, Deafblind or hard of hearing
- aged 65 years and older (50 or over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
- not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Eligible Australian Government-funded aged care providers are those delivering:
- care finder services
- Single Assessment System services
- Commonwealth Home Support Program services
- Support at Home services
- residential aged care
- other aged care services subsidised by the government.
When to use the NSLP
You can book NSLP services when an eligible older person needs communication support to participate in:
Aged care activities
- aged care assessments
- care planning and review discussions
- contacting My Aged Care if required
Medical appointments
- health and medical appointments that attract a Medicare rebate
Social and professional activities
- banking, superannuation and budgeting appointments
- housing and other essential appointments
- online meetings and activities
- social, cultural and community activities
- family events, such as weddings, funerals and reunions
- emergencies involving ambulances, hospitals, police and other emergency services
How to make a booking
Book early to allow time for any preparation before your appointment.
For providers
- Register with Deaf Connect to get a booking code.
- Use the same code each time you book services.
To help ensure the service meets the older person’s needs, ask about their preferred language or communication method before making a booking.
For older people
- Contact Deaf Connect in the way you prefer.
- The team will support you to register. You do not need a booking code.
- To book or for emergency after-hours support, contact Deaf Connect as needed.
You can also ask your service provider or assessment organisation to book for you.
The My Aged Care website also has a range of accessible contact options to support people navigating the aged care system. Visit My Aged Care to learn more.
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