MAQ monitors the implementation of the Queensland Government Language Services Policy, which is designed to enhance service delivery to non-English speaking clients. The Language Services Policy was incorporated as part of the Queensland Government Multicultural Policy in December 2004.
Qld Government Multicultural Policy - Making a World of Difference (PDF 293 KB)
Qld Government Multicultural Policy - Making a World of Difference (html text only)
As part of the policy, Queensland Government agencies are required to provide and pay for professional interpreting services provided either by the Commonwealth Government's Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) or any local private agency for clients who have difficulties communicating in English.
In Queensland there are accredited and non-accredited interpreters. Wherever possible, agencies should request an interpreter accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) at the 'Interpreter' level as a first preference, and a NAATI accredited 'Paraprofessional Interpreter' as a second preference.
Queensland Government agencies can arrange interpreters in Auslan and other sign languages through the Deaf Services Queensland by telephoning +61 7 3892 8500 or 1800 630 745 (emergency after hours service) or emailing dsq@deafsq.org.au.
Interpreters may be used at any Queensland Government agency including public hospitals, community health centres, state schools, transport offices, consumer affairs offers, courts*, police stations and public housing offices.
If a person wants an interpreter for private medical appointments, Queensland Government agencies may refer the person to the National Auslan Interpreter Booking and Payment Service (NABS). NABS offers free services to Sign Language users and private medical practitioners. Additionally, it provides free interpreter service for deaf Indigenous People at any medical or health care appointment whether it is private or public. NABS can be contacted on 1800 246 945 between the hours of 8am to 8pm (Monday to Friday) and 8am to 1pm (Saturday), or email: Bookings@nabs.org.au.
*NB. Under Queensland legislation, the State (ie. the Queensland Government) is only required to provide an interpreter for court proceedings if ordered by the court in criminal and domestic violence related matters. This does not include civil matters, such as Small Claims Tribunal hearings.
TIS can provide both telephone and on-site interpreters.
The Commonwealth Government's Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) provides both telephone and on-site interpreters. State Government agencies can arrange interpreting services for clients by telephoning TIS on 131 450 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) or by contacting private organisations of your choice. Information about private interpreting services can be found in the Yellow Pages under 'Interpreters'.
To arrange on-site interpreting in advance or pre-booked telephone interpreting at TIS, telephone 1300 655 081 or fax on 1300 654 151. Request forms are available from TIS. As there is a shortage of on-site interpreters in some languages in Queensland, it is advisable to provide TIS with as much notice as possible (5 days is preferred) in order to maximise your chances of obtaining an on-site interpreter.
Further details about engaging interpreters can be found in the Queensland Government Language Services Policy under 'Guidelines for Working with an Interpreter'.
Last reviewed: 06 June 2007
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©The State of Queensland (Multicultural Affairs Queensland) 2008