Increased Auslan funding through JobAccess has created opportunities for Sofya’s career in film and theatre.
Sofya enjoys her varied role in film and theatre, working with talented individuals. As a Deaf person, Sofya experienced communication barriers at work. That’s when she and her employer contacted JobAccess for Auslan funding support. This has helped improve communication, and enhance inclusion and access for Sofya at work.
Sofya Gollan is a screenwriter, director and actor. She also works with a writers room and on set in production.
Sofya is Deaf and uses Auslan (Australian Sign Language) as one of her main forms of communication. The project she was working on did not have Auslan interpreters, which made communication a challenge for her. Sofya also works with large teams, which makes communicating more complex.
That’s when Sofya and her employer, Spit Films Pty Ltd, contacted JobAccess for help. They applied for Auslan interpreter funding via the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF). The EAF gives financial help to employers and people with disability to make work-related modifications or adjustments.
In 2023, the Australian Government increased funding for Auslan interpreting services. The goal was to help Deaf employees communicate and collaborate better at work. The yearly funding for Auslan Level 1 interpreting doubled from $6,000 to $12,000, with indexation added yearly.
“The increase for Auslan interpreting has been a welcome change. Earlier, the funding would run out quickly,” Sofya said.
Sofya and her employer lodged an EAF application through the JobAccess website for Auslan interpreting. Soon after lodging the application, a JobAccess Professional Adviser contacted Sofya and her employer. They discussed eligibility requirements and some of the barriers she experienced at work. Sofya found the application process easy and liked that it was employer-led. The funding was granted very quickly.
“Having the support for interpreting is so welcome and much needed. It ensures a respectful and smooth working process.”
“Having an interpreter means that fear or anxiety no longer exists. It also means I have more opportunity to network. This helps me build strong industry connections.”
JobAccess is the go-to expert for disability employment matters. It helps removes barriers to sustainable employment for people with disability. JobAccess has a team of allied health professionals who provide expert, confidential and tailored advice on workplace adjustments from the first point of contact.
For expert advice and tailored support, submit an online enquiry or visit the website. http://www.jobaccess.gov.au/