Language services  

The blue interpreter symbol is the internationally recognised interpreter symbol. For more information about this symbol view here


For practice guidelines and tools related to working with interpreters, preparing and using translated materials, browse MHiMA's knowledge exchange. You will also find language policies related to mental health interpreting and translating in each state and territory.

 

 

National services

The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)  is an interpreting service provided by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship to provide interpreting services for people who do not speak English and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients. 

TIS National provides: immediate phone interpreting ATIS voice-automated voice-prompted immediate phone interpreting pre-booked phone interpreting on-site interpreting

TIS National's immediate phone interpreting service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year for the cost of a local call for any person or organisation in Australia who needs an interpreter.

Some agencies may be eligible for access to free interpreting services through TIS National. How to contact: 

Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)

Phone: 1300 655 820

Immediate phone interpreting: 131 450

Fax: 1300 654 151 

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.tisnational.gov.au  

“I need an interpreter” cards can be ordered from TIS National. The card assists people with limited proficiency in the English language access services by helping them request interpreter assistance and makes it easier for staff in government agencies to arrange for a competent interpreter in the correct language.

 



Other useful links: 

State and territory services

In addition to using TIS National, state and territory mental health service providers have local interpreting and translating service arrangements in place.  

Australian Capital Territory 

For information, go to the ACT Government Health Directorate, webpage Interpreter Service 

Northern Territory  

The Department of Regional Development and Women's Policy webpage, Interpreting and Translating Service NT
 outlines the interpreting and translating services it provides.

Queensland 

The Queensland Health webpage, Queensland Health Interpreter Service (2012) outlines interpreting and translating services information for members of the public and health workers.  

New South Wales

NSW Health interpreting and translating services are provided on a regional basis. This document, NSW Health Care Interpreter Services includes information for consumers and the contact details of each agency. 

South Australia

The Interpreting and Translating Centre website describes the centre's work in health and other settings. For more information about accessing language services in mental health settings, use the general contact details on the SA Health, Mental Health Services webpage.  

Tasmania

The Department of Health and Human Services webpage, Translating and interpreting services, includes information for clients about how to contact the Telephone the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) and a fact sheet for consumers and carers using services.

Victoria 

Requirements in relation to working with interpreters in mental health settings are outlined on Victoria's Mental Health Services webpage, Use of language Services in Area Mental Health Services (2012)The following agencies provide interpreting and translating services in mental health settings:

Western Australia

The Office of Multicultural Interests, Department of Local Government, webpage Western Australian Language Services Policy 2008 includes links and information. The WA Government does not recommend specific translating and interpreting providers but suggests exploring the following links: