About Merge AU
In the Beginning.....
Merge NZ was set up in 2017 in New Zealand. Director, Victoria Lessing and Polly Aardt met at the 60th Australian Deaf Games in January 2024. These ladies with mind-like quickly connected and agreed to start Merge AU business in Australia. Business was registered on 19th January 2024.
Normalise Australian Sign Language (Auslan) through provision of services, trainings, programmes, events and promotion. Our Deaf-led company will market and promote Auslan and Deaf culture in most parts of Australia thus ensuring the promotion and preservation of our unique language.
A merge between Auslan and English.
A merge between Deaf and hearing.
A merge between cultures, fostering
mutual understanding and respect
Merge's Values, Vision & Mission Statement
Vision: "Normalise Auslan"
Mission: To provide high quality, easily accessed Auslan and Deaf cultural education to increase the number of Australian who have the skills to use Auslan in their daily lives.
Merge Core Values:
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We are passionate about the growth and preservation of Sign Language
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We are creative, energetic & proactive
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Our journey is led by Deaf culture
Our philosophy ensures projects are led, created and developed by Deaf professionals to strengthen leadership and independence.
Our Deaf-led company will market and promote Auslan and Deaf culture in New South Wales, Australia thus ensuring the promotion and preservation of our unique language.
Merge AU contributes to the development of Auslan teaching curriculum / resources to support children and adults learning Auslan and Deaf culture as well support Auslan training programme for Auslan tutors. We research and develop appropriate materials and deliver courses and presentations.
Merge AU team transparently works with other Deaf/Auslan related organisations, businesses and individuals to make our vision a reality.
Our company's our vision is a cherished legacy belonging to the Deaf community. Our responsibility to our Deaf community and Auslan as a language, leads us in all we do.
It’s our passion and our privilege!