THE deaf community wants you to know they are equal, thanks to Auslan.
That's the theme of this week's National Week of Deaf People.
It's a reminder that through Australian sign language, Auslan, deaf people are able to effectively participate as an active member of the community.
It also calls for Auslan to be recognised and to be available for deaf people at all stages of life.
Currently one in six Australians experience some sort of hearing loss.
This figure is expected to rise to one in four in the next 35 years, with the elderly, young people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders particularly at risk.
The week also serves as a reminder not to take hearing for granted.
Assistant Health Minister Ken Wyatt said many people don't realise how vital hearing is until it's gone.
"That's why the government, through Australian Hearing, is providing free hearing checks at locations such as agricultural shows, shopping centres, expos and regional areas," Mr Wyatt said.
Last financial year 700,000 people accessed the program.
Mr Wyatt said resources such as Know Your Noise offers hints to protect hearing.