Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Augmentative and alternative communication, or AAC, covers the tools and strategies that help a person communicate when speech is difficult or not possible. Speech To You helps adults across Melbourne find, set up and use AAC that fits their everyday life, at home and in the community.
What does AAC include?
AAC can be high tech or low tech, and many people use a mix of both.
- High tech: communication apps on tablets and dedicated speech-generating devices
- Low tech: communication boards and books, community access cards and alphabet charts
- No tech: key word sign, gestures and facial expression
Who can AAC help?
AAC can support adults with a wide range of conditions, including motor neurone disease, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, acquired brain injury, stroke and progressive neurological conditions. For people whose speech may change over time, planning AAC early means the right tools are ready when they are needed.
How we work
We start by getting to know the person: how they communicate now, who they talk to and what matters most to them. From there we trial options, set up and personalise the chosen system, and train the person, their family and support team to use it. Because we come to you, we can practise in the places where communication actually happens, from the kitchen table to the local café.
Funding for AAC
We support people aged 15 and over who are funded through the NDIS or My Aged Care (Support at Home). [to confirm: NDIS plan types accepted, and whether private clients are seen]
How to refer
Anyone can refer to Speech To You, including clients, families, support coordinators and health professionals. Complete our online referral form, call 0402 532 146 or email admin@speechtoyou.com.au, and our team will be in touch.
Frequently asked questions
Is AAC only for people who can't speak?
No. Many people use AAC alongside speech, for example when speech is tiring, unclear to new listeners, or likely to change over time.
Do you help set up communication apps and devices?
Yes. We help choose, set up and personalise apps and devices, and train the people who will use them every day.
Can family and support workers be trained?
Yes. AAC works best when everyone around the person knows how to use it, so training the support network is part of what we do.