In recent years, accessibility has become a buzzword in the events industry — and that’s a good thing. More organisations are recognising the importance of inclusion and taking steps to accommodate diverse communities. One such step is hiring Auslan interpreters to ensure Deaf Australians have equitable access to public events.

But there’s a problem. A big one.

Too often, organisations hire Auslan interpreters for events without taking the vital next step: actually letting the Deaf community know that access is available. 

The result? Empty reserved seats, interpreters signing to no one, and most importantly — Deaf community members missing out, again.

This “tick and flick” approach — where accessibility is treated as a box to be ticked for optics, compliance, or feel-good branding — does more harm than good. Why?

Because those Auslan interpreters, skilled professionals in high demand, are being taken away from critical bookings: medical appointments, legal settings, mental health sessions, job interviews, or even funerals. 

Situations where real Deaf clients need communication access — and too often, can’t get it because the interpreters are tied up working events with no Deaf audience. They say that current statistics show that there is one Auslan Interpreter for every 52 Deaf people. 

The interpreting community is small and stretched. Every hour counts. And while we absolutely want to see more interpreters visible at public events, it must be meaningful. True access means engaging with the Deaf community from the outset — letting them know the event is for them, not just about them

Here’s what needs to change:

    •    Promote the event directly to the Deaf community through Deaf organisations, networks, and accessible social media.

    •    Include interpreters in the planning process to help design real, usable access.

 •    Engage Deaf consultants in planning, this supports a collaborative approach to planning events and ensuring you know the most appropriate practices.

 •    Engage Deaf led teachers to be taught the basics in Auslan or engaging in Deaf Awareness Training.

Understanding that “visibility without usability isn’t access — it’s theatre”.

We can do better. If you’re planning an event and considering Auslan access, thank you. That’s a great start. Now, take the next step. Make it count — for the Deaf community, and for the interpreters doing their best to serve them.

Because access isn’t about ticking a box, it’s about opening a door.