Auslan Emergency Interpreting (AEI) App
Expression Australia has launched a world-first Auslan Emergency Interpreting (AEI) App, giving Deaf and hard of hearing people direct access to Triple Zero (000) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Launched on Wednesday 12 November 2025, the AEI App builds on more than 140 years of advocacy and services through Australia's oldest Deaf Society.
For the first time since Triple Zero was introduced in 1961, Deaf and hard of hearing people can contact emergency services in Auslan, in real time, anywhere in Australia.
More Than Just a Call: The World's First Wrap-Around Emergency Solution
While other services globally provide vital access to emergency operators, the Auslan Emergency Interpreting (AEI) service is the first to go further. We don't just connect to Triple Zero; we stay with you.
Through our unique integration with Business On-Demand Interpreting (BODI), our service ensures continuity of communication after the call ends. Whether you are conversing with policing on-scene, paramedics in an ambulance, or staff at a hospital admission, our interpreters remain available to support you through the entire emergency journey.
What is Auslan Emergency Interpreting?
AEI is a life-saving emergency communications service for Deaf and hard of hearing Australians.
Using the AEI App, you can:
- Make a video call in Auslan
- Connect to a qualified Auslan interpreter
- Have the interpreter call 000 for you
- Communicate clearly during emergencies - in Auslan
This ensures that help can arrive faster when it's needed most.
The AEI App has already gained global recognition, with a nomination for Innovative Solutions in the 2026 Zero Project Awards.
Why AEI matters
For more than 64 years, Deaf and hard of hearing people around Australia have not had equal access to emergency services. Existing services only provided Auslan support during business hours.
The AEI App:
- Closes a 64 year gap in equal access to 000
- Supports an estimated 3 million Australians who are deaf or hard of hearing
- Ensures reliable, stable access to emergency interpreting.
As our CEO Rebecca Adam has said, this is more than a technology project - it's about safety, access and human rights for Deaf and hard of hearing people in Australia.
Who is this service for?
The AEI App is for:
- Deaf and hard of hearing people in Australia who use Auslan
- Emergency services who want to provide safe, inclusive and culturally appropriate support
- Businesses and organisations looking for accessible emergency solutions for Deaf and hard of hearing customers, clients, or staff
Not sure if it's right for you or your organisation? Contact us and we can talk through your solution.
Our commitment and partnerships
The AEI App has been self-funded by Expression Australia and developed in collaboration with technology partners, as part of our commitment to building solutions that transform access for Deaf and hard of hearing people.
To keep this essential, life-saving service operating 24/7 for every Deaf and hard of hearing Australian who needs it, we are now seeking:
- Government partners - to integrate AEI into national emergency frameworks
- Business and community partners - to help sustain and expand the service
If you are interested in partnering with us to support AEI, please get in touch with us.
Learn more
Want to know more about how the AEI App works, when to use it and what to expect?
- Read our AEI App FAQs (Auslan and English)
- Check out our demo videos for iPhone and Android smartphones.
- Read the Media Release on the launch of the AEI App