We launched the 'Hello, my name is...' campaign to celebrate Auslan, (Australian Sign Language), during National Week of Deaf People, 19 – 25 September. The week celebrates deaf people, language, culture, and community.
We encouraged Australians of all ages to participate in the week by learning how to sign ‘Hello, my name is’ and their name in Auslan. It is a simple, but powerful way to raise awareness about this beautiful language and those who use it.
People from across Australia lent their support to the campaign including young deaf people through to high profile individuals. Their messages were released from 19 to 25 September.
We would like to thank everyone that took part to help raise awareness about Auslan and the people that use it. We encourage you to continue to engage in Auslan, find out more.
“We wanted to establish a feeling of inclusivity during this difficult time when members of the deaf and hard of hearing community are experiencing significant and acute isolation and loneliness.” Deaf Children Australia CEO, David Wilson.
Auslan is a uniquely Australian language used by approximately 30, 000 people. It is a visual language incorporating hands, facial expressions, arm, and body movements to convey meaning.
National Week of Deaf People, is an initiative of Deaf Australia.
Download our Auslan alphabet Learn Auslan
How people took part
People learned to sign 'Hello, my name is...' and to fingerspell their name. Watch the video to find out how - tuition begins at 1:11. The Auslan poster on the right may also help.
Sign and share
Step 1. Practice signing Hello, my name is and your name - watch the video above
Step 2. Video or take a picture of yourself signing
Step 3. Share your video/photos on your social channels and tag us at
Facebook @DeafChildrenAustralia
Twitter @deafchildrenaus
Instagram@deafchildrenaustralia
Step 4. Include the tagline: ‘Join me and Deaf Children Australia in celebrating Australia's sign language, Auslan, to raise awareness about deaf language and culture during National Week of Deaf People, 19-25 September’ #dcamynameis #deafchildrenaustralia
If you do not have a social media account, please send your video or photos to communications@deafchildren.org.au and we can share it for you.
A few tips to help you
- If you are right-handed, this will be your dominant hand for the signing
- If you are left-handed, this will be your dominant hand for the signing
- If you are ambidextrous, you can choose which dominant hand you prefer
Join us
Whether you are fluent or just starting out, Auslan is for everyone.
