Nationals Eastern Victoria MP, Peter Hall has sought assistance from the State Government to enable a Gippsland couple to communicate with their young daughter who has recently been diagnosed with a profound hearing problem.
“Mum and Dad need to learn sign language so they can communicate with their 3 year old daughter. The only option is for them to undertake a Diploma of AUSLAN at a local TAFE college. Under the Labor Government’s new fee structure for Diploma and Advanced Diploma students, this will cost the family $10,800 in tuition fees!” Mr Hall told Parliament.
Mr Hall said he had advised the couple to apply for an exemption from the full fees, but even if their application was successful, the personal cost would still be $3200.
“For a family with young children and with additional costs incurred in speech therapy and services for a hearing impaired child, the cost of learning sign language is a further significant financial impost,” Mr Hall added.
Mr Hall said if the family lived in Melbourne they would be able to learn AUSLAN through community providers and hearing support groups at little or no cost. He said country people should not be financially disadvantaged and the cost of provision should be met by the Government.
“The Government’s Early Childhood Services program promises to equip parents with the skills needed to assist young children with disabilities.
If the Government is true to its word they should ensure that parents requiring such skills are given the opportunity to acquire them without cost’” Mr Hall concluded.
Media Contact: Peter Hall (03) 5174 7066
