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One of the major services funded through Deaf Lottery is Deaf Connect’s Auslan education program.
As a registered training organisation, our Deaf trainers teach thousands of people each year about Auslan and the rich culture of Australia’s Deaf community – from parents of deaf children and health professionals, to students, retirees and future interpreters.
Sharlene Payn is one of these trainers. She shared why teaching Auslan means so much to her.
Sharlene Payn, Auslan Trainer at Deaf Connect
“For many Deaf Australians and others who use Auslan, it’s far more than a way to communicate – it’s language, identity, culture, and connection.
“Teaching Auslan allows me to educate a diverse range of students, not just in vocabulary and signs, but in understanding the Deaf community, its culture and history, and the lived experiences behind the language. Auslan is a language with its own grammar and structure, and learning it challenges people to think differently about communication.
“In the classroom, I encourage students to use their whole selves – facial expression, movement, space and intent – to express meaning. Watching students grow in confidence as they begin to truly communicate, rather than simply sign, is incredibly rewarding.
“I teach people from all walks of life – from parents supporting their deaf children’s language development, to students and community members, as well as professionals such as speech therapists, nurses, doctors, teachers, police officers, paramedics, firefighters, and government staff. I’m proud to help create more informed, inclusive and respectful spaces through education.”
4,000 students enrol per year – will you be next?
Students undertaking Auslan classes at Deaf Connect come from incredibly diverse backgrounds, but they’re all united by a drive to be more inclusive.
Whether you want to learn basic conversational skills to be more inclusive, or work towards a qualification – all the way up to a Diploma of Interpreting – there’s a pathway for every learner.
And guess what? Auslan Day is just around the corner, coming up on 13 April 2026.
There’s never been a better time to start your learning journey!
We would love to hear from you
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1800 77 36 78
All times displayed in your local timezone unless stated otherwise. Deaf Lottery is in aid of the charitable services of Deaf Services Limited (T/A Deaf Connect) and is a registered charity with Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ABN 62 118 664 298). Located at Level 5, 88 Tribune Street, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia.
