Interpreting and translating policy

We are committed to ensuring that the Return to Work scheme is responsive to the rights and needs of our diverse population. We require that our staff, claims agents, providers and self-insured employers communicate with stakeholders using accredited interpreters or translators when required.

Interpreting

Interpreting is the communication of an oral or visual gesture from one language (the source language) into another language (the target language). It includes community and Aboriginal languages or AUSLAN (Australian sign language).

There are various types of interpreting. These include face-to-face, telephone, business, video conferencing and conference interpreting.

Translating

Translating is the communication of a written document from one language (the source language) into another language (the target language).

Professional interpreting and translating services

If you need to communicate using an interpreter, you must use a NAATI accredited interpreter or translator (when available).

You should not use the client’s family members/colleagues or friends as interpreters. If the client asks for a family member, friend or an advocate to be present, encourage them to do this for support only.

A family member or friend may not be able to interpret Return to Work scheme information accurately.

As a service provider of ReturnToWorkSA, it is your responsibility to:

• be sensitive to clients’ needs and advise them that an interpreter can be arranged at no cost to them
• arrange interpreting or translating services when required
• provide plain and accurate information
• define complex terminology or acronyms
• keep control of the interview.

The role of the interpreter is to facilitate verbal communication between the parties involved. The interpreter is not responsible for conducting the interview, giving advice or acting as an advocate.

The role of the translator is to translate written text that you provide. It is not their responsibility to define terms, reformat the material, provide examples or change any of the material to make it more suitable for translation.

Contacting interpreting and translating services

There are a number of interpreting and translating services available. Always ensure the service you use provides NAATI accredited interpreters and translators. For more information on NAATI, call the national hotline on 1300 557 470 or visit their website at http://www.naati.com.au/

Services include but are not limited to:

Interpreting and Translating Centre (ITC)

Call: (08) 1800 280 203
Press 1 to book an interpreter or enquire about an existing interpreter booking
Level 4, 44 Pirie Street, Adelaide SA 5000
Fax: (08) 8226 1992
Email: itc@sa.gov.au

Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS)

Call: 13 14 50 for telephone interpreting
Call: 1300 655 082 for face-to-face interpreting
Email: tis@homeaffairs.gov.au
Fax: 1300 654 151

Sign Language Communications SA (SLC SA)

To book an Auslan (deaf sign interpreter):

59-61 Grange Road, Welland SA 5007
Ph: (08) 8100 8200
Fax: (08) 8377 1933
TTY: (08) 8340 1654
Emergency: 0417 233 369
Email: interpreting@deafcando.com.au

Interpreter declaration form

When an interpreter is used, the interpreter should sign an interpreter declaration form (PDF, 745 KB).

Further information

If you have any enquiries about this policy please contact ReturnToWorkSA on 13 18 55 or email info@rtwsa.com