The Government of South Australia has developed the South Australian Policy Framework: Aboriginal Languages Interpreters and Translators (PDF, 283.3 KB).
This is part of its commitment to ‘Closing the Gap’, through providing a coordinated policy approach for the effective provision and use of Aboriginal languages interpreting and translating services.
The policy’s objectives are:
- to ensure that Government of South Australia agencies and services acknowledge, understand and respond to the need for Aboriginal languages interpreters and translators by Aboriginal people for whom English is a barrier to effective communication and understanding
- to improve awareness across government and in the community of the availability of Aboriginal languages interpreters and translators for use in communication, consultation and service delivery
- to assist in the development of an effective, coordinated Aboriginal languages interpreting and translating system that is readily accessible to Aboriginal people and state government agencies and services
- to apply minimum standards across government agencies and government services regarding the provision of Aboriginal languages interpreters and translators
- to reduce the disadvantage experienced by Aboriginal people for whom English and/or culture is a barrier in communicating and consulting with government agencies and services.
Building on the government’s policy, Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation is now discussing with key stakeholders options for delivering an improved Aboriginal languages interpreter service. This work will address the need for:
- more trained interpreters
- a clearer system for accessing interpreter services for both government and Aboriginal people
- enhanced integration of interpreting into government programs and services.
Benefits of using interpreting and translating services
- Makes sure Aboriginal people have equal access to information about government processes and services.
- Supports informed decision making on critical matters which will have a significant effects on a person’s life.
- Builds better relationships between governments and Aboriginal people and communities.
- Improves government service delivery and programme development.
- Demonstrates the government’s respect for Aboriginal languages and culture.
Related information
South Australian Policy Framework: Aboriginal Languages Interpreters and Translators (PDF, 283.3 KB)
South Australian Aboriginal Languages Interpreters and Translators Guide