Posted on: September 22, 2026 by admin
If you’ve ever applied for an Australian visa, you’ll know that all supporting documents have to be translated into English before submission. Informal translations are not enough; the government expects applicants to use a NAATI-accredited translator. This is because they are universally recognised and have undergone extensive training.
At Speak Your Language, we recognise that translation errors can cost you more than just financially. An incorrect translation could result in your visa application getting rejected or delayed for months. Rest assured, SYL is a team of translation professionals who are efficient and reliable. We are highly skilled and specialise across a range of industries, so no document type is beyond our scope.
All our translators have been accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI). This means they have met a series of prerequisites surrounding formal training and ethical agreements. We are accredited in over 120 languages, so we can help with all your translation needs. By unpacking the specific processes each translator has undergone to become certified, we hope to build greater trust with our clients and reassure them that they’re receiving high-quality, reliable translations.
As NAATI is responsible for setting and maintaining high standards across translation services in Australia, formal training is compulsory to gain accreditation. Translators must first attain an Advanced Diploma or higher in a NAATI-endorsed course. This training is conducted independently, not through NAATI. Their education teaches prospective translators to handle complex tasks and revise non-specialised documentation in most situations. At the end of their educational journey, they’ll be tested online on their ability to consistently translate and revise texts.
To translate accurately, applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in English, which is often assessed through experience and evidence. For example, translators might have to provide their secondary school graduation certificate to prove their status as native speakers.
Translators must uphold strong ethical standards; when they become accredited, they are bound by a code of ethics, and it’s essential they know how to apply it to their work. The Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators (AUSIT) Code of Ethics governs the practices of translators throughout the country. Some key principles include confidentiality, competence, impartiality, and accuracy. These are critical for ensuring clients have access to fair and accurate translations regardless of their background. A commitment to ethical standards is typically showcased within a translator’s formal education or a subsequent test.
Intercultural competency is the understanding of how culture and language interact. It’s important that translators recognise how customs and cultural nuances affect inferred meaning. Whilst meanings may change over time, this mindset helps translators critically engage with texts before translating them into English.
At Speak Your Language, we prioritise accuracy and reliability across our translation services. We hold all our interpreters to a high standard, and most of our contractors have NAATI Level 3 qualifications or higher. We are more than capable of handling your translation needs. Whether you need official papers, medical certificates, or other types of technical translations, trust our team to maintain the integrity of your documents.
Call SYL or book a translation service today.
