About Key Word Sign

Welcome to Key Word Sign NSW.

Key Word Sign NSW is a not-for-profit incorporated association that supports the use of Key Word Sign within NSW. It is run by a dedicated group of volunteers.

What is Key Word Sign?

Key Word Sign (KWS) is the combination of manual signs and natural gesture, used to support communication. It is designed for use with children and adults who have communication difficulties.

Key Word Sign is used internationally and uses the signs of the host country. Therefore in Australia, we borrow signs from Auslan (Australian Sign Language).

The main principles of Key Word Sign are:

• • Always use speech together with the sign

  • Speak in normal, grammatical sentences

  • Sign only the key words in the sentence

  • Use facial expression and body language to help support your message

Key Word Sign Australia acts as a central organising and co-ordinating body for Key Word Sign activities throughout Australia. If you want to know more about KWS Australia click here

To find Key Word Sign resources click here to visit the Key Word Sign Australia site.

What Key Word Sign NSW does:

- Supports the Key Word Sign NSW Presenters network, including providing regular sign update sessions

- Works with Key Word Sign Australia to implement Key Word Sign initiatives across NSW

- Promotes the use of Key Word Sign throughout NSW for the benefit of people with communication difficulties

- Coordinates training and education workshops across the state

- Provides support to presenters and the community through training, a quarterly newsletter, website and a facebook group