- The Importance of Language Support
- At a glance
- Help newcomers access interpreting support
- Using the Free Interpreting Service
- Good practice when using interpreters
- Use a professional interpreter for medical, legal and other important conversations, including signing a residential lease.
- Avoid relying on children to interpret, as this can place unnecessary responsibility on them and affect family relationships.
- Avoid depending on a single bilingual volunteer or community member, as this can create pressure, dependence and limit open communication.
- Encourage local service providers, such as GPs, schools and real estate agencies, to use their own interpreting services where available.
- Translation apps such as Google Translate can help with simple conversations but should not replace professional interpreters for important discussions.
- Consider scheduling regular meetings with a telephone or onsite interpreter during the first few months so the Household has dedicated time to ask questions and discuss more complex matters.
- Interpreter process
- What's next?
The Importance of Language Support #
Using professional interpreters helps Refugee Households communicate confidently, make informed decisions and participate fully in their settlement journey.
At a glance #
- Let the Household know they can request an interpreter whenever needed.
- Use professional interpreters for important conversations.
- Avoid relying on children or individual volunteers to provide language support.
- Regular access to interpreting builds trust, understanding and independence.
Help newcomers access interpreting support #
CRSA’s Newcomer Orientation Booklet includes information explaining how newcomers can request interpreting support.
Resource:
Newcomer Orientation Booklet
Using the Free Interpreting Service #
Community Supporter Groups participating in the CRISP can access free professional interpreting through the Australian Government’s Free Interpreting Service (FIS).
The service offers telephone interpreting that can be used immediately or booked in advance. In some locations, onsite interpreters may also be available during business hours.
Groups receive instructions for registering with the Free Interpreting Service once they have been matched with a Refugee Household.
Good practice when using interpreters #
When supporting communication:
Interpreter process #
“Orientation works best as a series of ongoing conversations that build confidence, understanding and independence over time.”
