Australian Health Directory

Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds often need the services of interpreters and translators who specialise in health care and medical terminology. Interpreting and translating services are provided by governments, private sector businesses and individual professionals independently or through contracting with larger providers.

Clear, well understood communication is crucial between clients and their health professionals. Health care interpreters frequently work on site or over the telephone and many are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their services can extend to the translation of health related documents and helping health professionals understand clients' cultural and religious backgrounds.

Interpreters at times deal with sensitive situations and subject matters where confidentiality is paramount. There are structures in place to ensure that Australians receive high quality services from professionals who observe the country's privacy laws as well as industry standards.

Interpreters in Australia are accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters Ltd, an independent body responsible for maintaining standards. Interpreters and translators are bound by the professional Code of Ethics of the Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators Inc. (AUSIT). The AUSIT Board of Professional Conduct deals with complaints about interpreters.