Victorians will soon be able to study for free to become Auslan interpreters, as the government looks to bolster the sign language workforce.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The state government announced on Tuesday it has added two Auslan courses to its free TAFE list: a diploma of Auslan, and an advanced diploma of interpreting in the Auslan stream.
Victorians will be able to start the fee-free courses from next year.
The diploma, which gives people a foundation to become an Auslan interpreter, will be offered by Melbourne Polytechnic.
The advanced diploma, which is a recognised qualification to become a certified Auslan interpreter, will be offered by RMIT.
Training and Skills Minister Gayle Tierney said the government's $4 million investment in the courses would help Victoria become a more inclusive and diverse place.
"Free TAFE is a game-changer for Victoria," she said.
"It helps make world-class training more accessible to more jobseekers, provides skilled workers for local business and boosts our economy."
Victoria's free TAFE program was introduced in 2019 and includes more than 60 courses.
Australian Associated Press