Thursday, 24 September 2015

Today Member for Brindabella Nicole Lawder will move to make the Legislative Assembly’s proceedings more accessible for Deaf Canberrans.

“Today I will move an amendment to the Legislative Assembly’s standing orders which will allow Auslan interpreters onto the floor of the Assembly when it’s in session. Currently special permission needs to be sought to allow an interpreter,” Ms Lawder said today.

“I’ve been advocating for better access for Deaf and hearing impaired people and allowing interpreters onto the floor is a step in the right direction. An Auslan interpreter would be particularly important during emergency situations.

“I employ a Deaf person in my office and understand the communication barriers they face day to day. As an Assembly we need to lead by example.
“In International Week of the Deaf this change is especially relevant.

“I look forward to the government’s support for this simple and logical change to allow Auslan interpreters onto the floor of the Assembly and hope it leads to better information accessibility for Deaf people,” Ms Lawder concluded.

Contact: Joe Prevedello 0402768432