Signs of inclusive community

Editorial: Danielle Ford

Photography: Clare O’Donnell

Constable Joshua Durdin doesn’t remember his exact first word, but he does know it wasn’t a spoken one, but rather something signed.

Both of Const Durdin’s parents are deaf, so growing up the first language he learnt to communicate in was Auslan.

Auslan is the sign language of the Australian deaf community and was developed by people who are deaf as a way to communicate with others.

“It was actually more of an effort for me to learn to speak than it was to learn to sign,” Const Durdin said.

“I just naturally picked Auslan up from my parents and family members who would communicate with them.”

Knowing Auslan is something that has proved beneficial on several occasions for the 27-yearold, not just with his family.

“It’s amazing how much a person who signs just brightens and opens up when they realise you can communicate with them in their language,” Const Durdin said.

“Growing up I would act as the interpreter for Mum whenever we went to the bank or the phone store, so I’ve had a lot of experience at it over the years.

“But I’ve also helped people in the community when I’ve seen them trying to communicate with someone. I’ve just politely offered my help and when they see that I can sign and communicate in their language their face just lights up and they are so appreciative.”

This assistance is something Const Durdin has been able to use since joining Victoria Police in 2017.

Const Joshua Durdin wants to be able to use his Auslan skills to show members of the deaf community that they can feel confident and comfortable engaging with police.

Const Durdin works at Dandenong Police Station and said while he hasn’t been required to use Auslan in an official police capability, there have been several occasions at community events where he’s been able to communicate with the public.

"The Dandenong area has a large deaf community,” he said.

“We attend a lot of community events as police and if I see people who sign, I always stop and have a chat with them.

“To show them that there is a local police officer who can communicate in their language is something I always try and do. It will hopefully help build a connection with police, so they don’t feel hesitant to come to us.”

With Census data showing that more than 3,000 Victorians communicate in Auslan, Const Durdin said it’s important Victoria Police has staff who can help these people feel connected.

Const Durdin said if it weren’t for him or his siblings, there may have been occasions when he was growing up where his parents wouldn’t have gone to certain places for help.

“I know from experience that some people who are deaf may be hesitant to go into a police station to report something because they feel like they won’t be properly understood,” Const Durdin said.

“I want to be able to show the community that there are people within Victoria Police who are equipped with Auslan skills and can assist.”