Sign Hear

Sharon, who was born Deaf and raised in the Sutherland Shire, was eager to join the workforce upon completing her schooling. However, she quickly encountered significant barriers stemming from a lack of awareness, accessibility, and inclusive practices. These challenges inspired her to become a dedicated advocate for bridging the gap between the Deaf and hearing communities. Motivated by her experiences, Sharon founded Sign Hear, an organisation committed to supporting individuals and families who are Deaf or hard of hearing. The organisation also partners with employers to help them create inclusive workplaces and provide appropriate support for Deaf and hard of hearing employees. With over 18 years of experience in Disability Employment Services and teaching Auslan, Sharon brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her work. Sign Hear offers a range of services, including Auslan instruction, workplace accessibility consulting, Auslan interpreting, and job placement assistance for members of the Deaf community. The organisation employs a diverse team comprising both Deaf and hearing professionals who use Auslan. This inclusive staffing model fosters a collaborative and supportive environment where all employees can contribute their unique perspectives and lived experiences. By embracing this approach, Sign Hear is able to offer a broader range of services and better meet the varied communication needs of its clients.