For the past few years, Deaf Australia has been advocating for improved access to the National Relay Service (NRS), including the expansion of 24/7 Auslan Video Relay Services.

Following the Australian Government’s 2026–27 Federal Budget announcement, Deaf Australia welcomes confirmation that additional funding has been allocated to support this important service.

According to the official Budget Paper No. 2, the Government will provide an additional $5 million per year for the next three years to expand video relay services to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This measure appears in the budget papers on page 130.

This funding is a significant step forward for Deaf Australians. Expanded 24/7 Auslan Video Relay Services will improve access to emergency communication, allowing Deaf people to contact emergency services in Auslan at any time.

This announcement reflects years of advocacy from Deaf Australia and the broader Deaf community, who have consistently raised the importance of equal and accessible communication services.

While this funding commitment is welcome, there are still many details to be confirmed about how the expanded service will be implemented. At this stage, Deaf Australia is seeking further information about timelines, delivery arrangements, and how the transition to 24/7 services will occur.

Deaf Australia will continue engaging with the relevant government departments and Minister Anika Wells to better understand the next steps and ensure the needs of the Deaf community remain central to implementation.

We thank our members, supporters, and the wider community for continuing to support this advocacy. This outcome demonstrates the impact of sustained community-led action.

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