Auslan users across Australia can now access the National Relay Service (NRS) Video Relay Service 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The expanded hours came into effect on 31 October 2026, following a staged rollout earlier in the year.
Video Relay allows people who use Auslan to make phone calls through a video connection with a relay officer. The officer interprets between Auslan and spoken English, helping people communicate with businesses, services, friends and family.
Previously, limited operating hours meant that people could not always access the service when they needed it. The expansion means Auslan users have greater flexibility to make calls in their preferred language, including outside regular business hours.
The NRS has also announced that Video Relay calling will move from Microsoft Teams to a new web platform and mobile app from 16 November 2026.
The service will remain free, although internet data charges may apply. Users are encouraged to check that their NRS account email address is up to date ahead of the transition.
The NRS has confirmed that emergency calls can also be made through Video Relay at any time, although the platform cannot currently identify or prioritise emergency calls.
For more information, read the National Relay Service announcement about expanded Video Relay hours.