At a railroad crossing, you will see signs and pavement markings in the shape of one large X and two Rs. You cannot pass if a yellow line is present before the train crossing area.  You should stop at the white line before the track when a train approaches.

Zebracrossing sign

It is important to note that Auslan is a living language, just like all other sign and spoken languages. It can be similar to other nations (eg. Auslan share similarities with British Sign Language and New Zealand Sign Language). The same could be said for indigenous communities; they have their own languages and have similarities.

Pedestriancrossing sign

Unguarded railwaycrossing sign

In today’s evolving world, technology is readily available for society to access information. To improve better understanding of Auslan, the identity and culture of the Auslan community or awareness, please contact Deaf Australia for advice.

It is often presumed that Auslan is ‘word for word’ but this is not true. It has its own lexicon and structure, where meanings can be conveyed using handshapes, movements, palm orientation, location and facial expressions.

Auslan is not limited to the Australian Deaf community only. It can be used by other people for genuine purposes such as;

Australian sign language like other sign languages around the world, developed its own unique characteristics, making it  a distinct language with its own grammar and syntax. There are notably Northern and Southern dialects, tying it to the origins of where the language was developed from.

Railwaycrossing signmeaning

Deaf or hard of hearing people can use different communication approaches interchangeably, such as Auslan, lip-reading, speech, gestures and writing notes. These approaches can also be useful for others who have communication difficulties.

The benefits of learning Auslan can improve communication, self-esteem, mental health, social engagement, consequently resulting in better understanding, increased knowledge and gaining valuable life skills.

The origin of the sign language has evolved since the 19th century from British, Irish and Scottish migrants who brought their sign languages with them.