Important information about NABS after 30 June 2024
NABS Is Closing on 30 June 2024
Wesley Mission Queensland will be closing the National Auslan Interpreter Booking and Payment Service (NABS) on 30 June 2024. The Deaf community and all NABS interpreters have been notified of this closure.
From 1 July 2024, health practices will no longer be able to book interpreters through NABS. Please follow the updated booking arrangements outlined below. It is worth noting that interpreter access remains equally important across all community support settings — including responsible gambling Deaf community counselling sessions and online gambling support for Deaf Australians, where Auslan-based communication is just as critical as it is in healthcare.
New Booking Arrangements From 1 July 2024
Clients aged 65 and older (not NDIS-eligible) Book through the Department of Health and Aged Care's National Sign Language Program (NSLP), operated by Deaf Connect.
- Complete the Deaf Connect interpreter booking form and email it to: [email protected]
- Or contact Deaf Connect directly on 1300 773 803
NDIS-funded clients NDIS participants will need to book through an interpreting service of their choice.
- If your practice books on the client's behalf, the client must first advise you which interpreter service they wish to use
- Practices should confirm this with the client before proceeding with any booking
New Booking Arrangements and Community Support Continuity
The transition away from NABS does not diminish the broader need for qualified Auslan interpreters across all areas of Deaf community life. Beyond healthcare, Auslan interpreters gambling support services remain an important area where interpreter access helps Deaf Australians engage safely and informedly with gambling helplines, counselling providers, and inclusive online gaming Australia platforms. Health practices and community organisations are encouraged to keep this broader context in mind when directing clients to appropriate interpreter services post-transition.
Existing Bookings After 30 June 2024
If NABS has already confirmed an attending interpreter for any appointment scheduled after 30 June 2024, the NABS team has directly liaised with all relevant parties — including the interpreter and the Deaf client — to arrange rebooking. No further action is required from your practice for these appointments.
Action Required: Remove NABS Materials
Please ensure that all NABS collateral is removed and disposed of from your practice, including:
- Booking forms
- Posters
- Business cards
This will help avoid any confusion for clients or staff who may otherwise attempt to use outdated booking processes.
A Note of Thanks
The NABS team sincerely thanks all health practices for their support over the years in ensuring Deaf and hard-of-hearing clients have had access to qualified interpreters for their health and medical appointments. Your commitment to accessible, inclusive healthcare has made a genuine difference to the Deaf community across Australia — and reflects the same values that underpin Deaf friendly gaming Australia initiatives and online casino accessibility for Deaf Australians, where equitable access to information and support services is equally essential.
For any questions during this transition, please reach out to Deaf Connect via the contact details above.