Expression Australia has launched its new Auslan Emergency Interpreting (AEI) App to provide three million Australians in the Deaf and Hard-of-hearing community with Auslan interpreting for the triple zero (000) emergency number.
The AEI App is a world-first emergency communications solution, providing the Deaf and Hard-of-hearing community with direct access to 000 for police, fire, or ambulance services, 24/7, 365 days a year, via real-time video calls with qualified Auslan interpreters.
Current services only offer Auslan video call support during Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) business hours, but the new move extends this access to after hours.
The app debuted on 12 November 2025 with Ms Maree Edwards, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly in the Parliament of Victoria.
While Expression Australia self-funded the app’s launch, it is urging governments to consider funding long term sustainability.
Expression Australia, the nation’s oldest Deaf society, said the project built on more than 140 years of service to the Deaf and Hard-of-hearing community.
It said the community had not had equal access to emergency services. The move closed a 64-year gap in equal access to 000 since its introduction in 1961, addressing a critical human rights issue and guaranteeing access to emergency access when every second counts.
Recent scrutiny of telecommunications networks after systemic failures during major emergencies, had highlighted the urgent need for reliable emergency communication solutions.
Self-funded by Expression Australia, the AEI App was developed in collaboration with its technology partners.
The organisation said it was a reliable and stable solution, designed to ensure the Deaf and Hard-of-hearing community could reach emergency services at any time.
Defining moment
Ms Rebecca Adam, Expression Australia CEO said launching the app was a defining moment for access and safety for three million Australians in the Deaf and Hard-of-hearing community.
“We’ve built this solution because waiting 64 years for equal access to emergency services is simply unacceptable,” she said.
“This is more than a technological fix – it’s the realisation of a fundamental human right, proudly led by a community-driven organisation.”
“We look forward to working with governments and business partners that share our vision. While we have self-funded this launch, securing the long-term sustainability of the AEI App is now a critical national priority to ensure this essential, life-saving service remains operational for every Australian, 24/7.
“Expression Australia urges all levels of government and key departmental stakeholders to immediately engage with us to discuss the permanent integration and sustainable funding of the AEI App into Australia’s national emergency framework.
“We welcome the opportunity to provide a live demonstration and ensure this crucial safety solution remains secured for all citizens.”
The AEI App has already received global recognition, with the solution nominated for Innovative Solutions in the 2026 Zero Project Awards. Zero Projects finds and shares solutions that improve the daily lives and legal rights of all people with disabilities.
