How and where can I learn Auslan?

DeafNav have a guide to where these courses are available in each state/territory.

• Face-to-face Private Tutoring: Suitable for personalised learning, often best for families, and may be delivered in the home. 
• Classroom Learning: Group settings such as TAFE classes.
• Online Learning: Can be individual or group-based, often self-paced.
• Primary and Secondary Schools: Schools that are bilingual or have support units, and mainstream schools that provide Auslan as part of the Australian Curriculum.
• VET Courses: Available for years 11 and 12, delivered by approved providers, and require an expression of interest submitted by the school.
• Auslan Apps: Useful supplementary tools (e.g. Auslan Signbank, Auslan Tutor 2).
• Other Resources: Flash cards, books, YouTube, etc.

• Asphyxia – Deaf author and artist –  offers a  beginners course with a request for donations to maintain the site.
  
  
• Auslan Signbank is a language resources site for Auslan (Australian Sign Language).
  
  
• Auslan Tutor 2 is a video-based teaching application developed by NextSense experts to assist you in learning Auslan.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATIONS

• Deaf Connect (QLD, NSW, SA, NT and WA):

• • Sign online – introductory online course at own pace
  • Beginner courses – Intro to Auslan 1 & 2 (both face-to-face and online)
  • Auslan at home – tailored for individuals and families
  • Family mentor program (Metro-Sydney) – tailored for families with D/HH children aged 0 to 8.
  • Accredited courses – Auslan Certificate II, III, IV; Diploma of Auslan; Diploma of Interpreting
  • VET courses – years 11 & 12 – Certificate II in Auslan
  • Deaf Awareness training.

• Expression Australia (VIC and TAS):

• • Auslan Beginner 101 & 102 courses – online
  • Auslan Extension 103 courses – online
  • Tailored Auslan courses – face-to-face or online
  • Deaf Awareness training.

SCHOOLS & COLLEGES

• Community Colleges – these colleges offer short courses. For example – Sydney Community College – Auslan short courses:
  • Introduction to Auslan 1 – online or face-to-face
  • Auslan level 2 – online or face-to-face.

• TAFE or other Vocational Education providers  – they offer introductory courses and accredited courses. For example:
  • TAFE NSW Auslan courses
  • Melbourne Polytechnic – Auslan courses
  • TAFE SA – Sign language courses.

• Primary and secondary schools (for school students only) – Auslan is part of the Australian Curriculum but it is not compulsory. Auslan has been taught in a number of schools in Victoria for many years, and a curriculum has been available at Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) level since 1994. Other states have followed suit over time, with Auslan now formally available in several schools in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. In 2026, NSW will be offering Auslan as an elective for students to learn at school as part of the new K-10 syllabus. For years 11 & 12 there are VET courses available through various providers endorsed by the education department. The student’s school must submit an expression of interest.

PRIVATE BUSINESSES

Numerous private companies provide Auslan tutoring. There are benefits to going privately, such as, being able to choose a local provider who can come to the home, or they may be able to provide other flexible delivery options. However, they are usually more expensive, so contact them to find out about cost and availability. 

Teacher of the Deaf (TOD) – some TOD’s will tutor Auslan outside of school.

• Attending local Deaf events, meet-ups, and play groups are a great way to practice your skills and immerse yourself in the culture.
• Find a Deaf mentor for your child with whom they can practice.
• Dedicate a few minutes each day to practice.
• Label household items with their Auslan signs.
• Integrate Auslan into playtime activities with your child.
• Learn and practice signing popular children’s songs.
• Create daily signing challenges.
• Join online communities and support networks (e.g. Little Auslaners FB group) to connect with other families learning Auslan.

There are also other resources available to help you learn Auslan, including books, videos, flashcards, apps, and websites. Take advantage of these resources to practice your skills and improve your vocabulary. 

• Auslan resources

More Information: 

• Find a school
• Deaf-friendly schools | Deaf Children Australia
• Real Life Tip – Does your child wish to study Auslan for year 11 and 12?
• Giving your child a strong Auslan foundation – Webinar (Dr. Louise de Beuzeville)