Posted on: March 16, 2026 by admin
In a multicultural country like Australia, people from many different linguistic backgrounds interact with government services, healthcare providers, legal professionals, and community organisations every day.
Clear communication in these situations is essential, especially when important decisions, rights, or wellbeing are involved. For individuals who do not feel confident communicating in English, interpreters play a vital role in ensuring conversations are accurate, fair, and fully understood by everyone involved.
But how do you access one, and where can you find a trained interpreter in Australia? In this guide, we’ll explore when interpreters are typically used in Australia and the different ways you can access professional interpreting services.
In Australia, interpreters are often needed in situations where two people or parties need to speak with each other, but one of them doesn’t have English as a first language.
In these situations, interpreters help convey what each party has said to the other, in the language they understand best. Using an interpreter breaks down language barriers, making sure both parties have a well-rounded understanding of what is being said, and enables people to express their own thoughts and questions, as easily and clearly as two people using the same language.
The role of an interpreter is not a participant in the conversation, but rather to enable the conversation to take place between two different languages.
Interpreters are commonly used in the following situations:
In Australia, there is usually no charge to the person who doesn’t have English as their first language in almost all of the situations listed above.
Most government departments and agencies, at both federal and state/territory levels, have policies that require them to provide an interpreter to any person who needs one. This is because it is a legal requirement for both parties to understand important matters being discussed, as the consequences of a misunderstanding can be very serious.
In many cases, when booking an appointment to meet an official or professional, you will be asked whether you need an interpreter. If this option is not available during the booking procedure, you have the right to request one.
However, in some situations, you may need to pay the cost of an interpreter yourself. For example, if you want legal advice about a personal matter like a property purchase or a will.
There are many ways to access a trained interpreter in Australia. Whether you need an interpreter immediately or would like to book for a specific date and time in the future, here are some common channels for interpretation services below.
If you need real-time interpreting services without the hassle of booking in advance, you can access an interpreter on-demand. Usually, this service is provided over the phone.
At Speak Your Language, we have an on-demand interpreting hotline, which matches you with a suitable interpreter whenever you need. Simply call 1300 000 795 to get started.
Phone interpreting is a fast and convenient way of connecting people who speak different languages with a live interpreter over the phone. It enables immediate, three-way communication, delivering instant interpreting in real-time.
We offer our very own telephone interpreter service, allowing our clients to have an effective conversation with third parties and bridge any communication gaps. We are proud to offer one of the fastest connection times in the industry, connecting our clients with an interpreter in 30 seconds or less.
Visit our website to learn more about our telephone interpreter service.
On-site interpreting is a face-to-face service where a trained interpreter physically attends a location to facilitate communication between two parties speaking different languages. It is the preferred method for sensitive, complex, or high-stakes situations where observing body language and non-verbal cues is essential. These include legal proceedings, medical appointments, or bank interviews.
Speak Your Language’s on-site interpreters are ready to come to you to help you overcome face-to-face language barriers. Get in touch with our team today to find a trained interpreter near you.
Much like phone interpreting, video interpreting is a remote interpretation service that allows participants to communicate in real-time through video conferencing. Video Interpreting is ideal for situations where an on-site interpreter is not available or practical, such as in remote locations, out of business hours, or when there is a need for a quick response.
At Speak Your Language, we can connect you with a qualified interpreter in just a few clicks using Zoom or Microsoft Teams. These platforms are also equipped with features such as audio and video recording, screen sharing, and file transfer, delivering a comprehensive and versatile solution for all types of interpreting requirements.
There are many ways to find a trained interpreter in Australia, depending on your needs and circumstances. Fortunately, this process is quite straightforward and often free for essential services, thanks to government-funded programs.
Discover where to find a trained interpreter below.
The TIS National is a free interpreting service provided by the Department of Home Affairs for people who do not speak English. This service is usually free for non-English speakers when communicating with many services, including doctors, pharmacies, and government agencies.
TIS National has access to more than 2,700 interpreters in over 150 languages, delivering a reliable service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The TIS National free interpreting service can be accessed immediately by phoning 131 450. They also provide pre-booked services over the phone or in person.
If you have a Medicare Card, you can access a free interpreter through your GP, medical specialist, or hospital. Often, these services are provided on-site, via phone, or through video conferencing.
If you are an eligible NDIS participant or carer, you can access language interpreting services free of charge under the NDIS.
Where possible, on-site interpreters will be booked to join your NDIS face-to-face meetings, while telephone services will be used for short, simple communications.
Your NDIS Planner, Early Childhood Early Intervention Services, Local Area Coordination Services or Support Coordinator can register with TIS National to allow you and your carers access to NDIS-funded interpreters.
For more information or to check your eligibility, call the TIS National directly on 131 450 or the NDIS on 1800 800 110.
The National Auslan Interpreter Booking and Payment Service (NABS) is Australia’s central service for connecting the Deaf community with accredited Auslan interpreters.
NABS serves both individuals and organisations across Australia, including:
Through NABS, you can book a NAATI-accredited Auslan interpreter for medical, legal, educational, and community appointments. With flexible booking options and payment and Medicare support, NABS offers practical, accessible Auslan interpreting services across the country.
To book an interpreter, phone 9037 23898 or submit a request via email at info@nabs.org.au.
To find a specific, highly qualified, or certified interpreter, you can use the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) online directory to search by language, location, and specialisation.
Here at Speak Your Language, we have established an experienced team of accredited translators and interpreters. Most of our contractors have NAATI Level 3 qualifications, or higher, to provide an accurate and reliable service in more than 120 languages.
Our interpretation services are available 24/7 across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, Brisbane, and Perth. Contact us today to request a quote or book a service.
Language should never be a barrier to understanding important information or accessing essential services. Whether you need support in a legal matter, healthcare appointment, government service, or personal situation, professional interpreters ensure communication remains clear, accurate, and respectful.
In Australia, many different types of interpreting services are available. By knowing when and how to access an interpreter, you can ensure every conversation is understood exactly as it should be.
