Auslan Interpreter for Declared Emergencies
01/07/2015
Minister for Disabilities Tony Piccolo and Dignity for Disability MLC Kelly Vincent – Media Release
Changes made today by the Government will ensure relevant government agencies use an accredited Australian Sign Language interpreter for all live televised warnings, or major public information press conferences issued for declared emergencies.
The State Emergency Management Plan has been updated meaning that people living with a hearing impairment have the same access to emergency broadcast information as other members of the community.
Disabilities Minister Tony Piccolo said AUSLAN services have previously been used but amending the Plan formalises this important service.
“We know that during a declared emergency, it is very important that the public has access to vital information at critical times,” Minister Piccolo said.
“Our intent is to create a structure where use of an interpreter is a central part of planning our emergency response.”
“Today’s announcement guarantees that more people will now have access to that vital information and continues this Government’s commitment to ensure the safety of all members of the community.”
Dignity for Disability MLC Kelly Vincent said she raised this issue with the Government following the Sampson Flat fire.
“The deaf and hard of hearing community informed me there was a need to provide greater certainty so that in the most severe circumstances their access to information will not be compromised,” Ms Vincent said.
“I advocated for this important change on behalf of that community and I am very pleased the Government has worked proactively with me to make this change.”
Additionally the newly formed State Public Information and Warning Advisory Group will ensure there is a whole of government approach to the use of AUSLAN Interpreters.
The Government is also undertaking a project to continue to improve coordination of issues and initiatives about developing resilience in vulnerable people during emergencies.
The State Emergency Management Committee has endorsed the change and the Government will continue to work with stakeholder groups to ensure the changes are implemented fully and properly.
