To celebrate Auslan Day 2022, SBS launched its first-ever Auslan video podcast series – Our Deaf Ways – celebrating and exploring everyday life as a Deaf person. 

Throughout six episodes, the visual podcast series features Deaf people from all walks of life and ages to talk about Deaf Ways and experiences. 

Hosted by Deaf advocate Shirley Liu, the series features many well-known figures including historian and linguist Darlene Thornton. 

David Hua, Director of Audio and Language Content at SBS, said the launch of SBS’s first Auslan video podcast is an exciting next step in continuing SBS’s commitment to producing accessible content.  

“We are very proud to be marking Auslan Day with the launch of Our Deaf Ways. There is much diversity in the over 10,000 users of Auslan in Australia. SBS is committed to inclusive story-telling and building belonging in the community. We hope that this Australian first will spark an interest and create a pathway for more accessibility for Deaf, DeafBlind, and hard of hearing audiences.” 

Deaf Australia’s CEO, Jen Blyth, added: “We are so excited to be partnering with SBS to produce and launch this video podcast. While designed for Deaf, Deafblind and hard of hearing people who use Auslan, we also encourage hearing people to watch and listen to Our Deaf Ways for the insights it provides, helping audiences to understand and relate to the Deaf community more and appreciate the language and culture – essentially our Deaf ways!”

Episode one is available in Auslan – with English voiceover and subtitles – on the SBS website, SBS Australia YouTube channel, Apple Podcasts and more.

The series is produced in partnership with Deaf Australia.