Communicating in another language can include Auslan or a language other than English. Australian Sign Language, also known as Auslan, is the language of the Deaf community of Australia. Within the workplace Translators and Interpreters may be required to assist with communication for individuals who communicate in a language other than English.
Translators work between two written documents by translating from one language to another. They can assist by translating the text of written documents such as policies and procedures, return to work plans and product information sheets.
Interpreters work between two spoken languages, two signed languages, or a spoken language and a signed language by interpreting what someone says into another language. They can assist in situations where you need help in understanding what someone is saying or to help someone else understand what you are saying.
Auslan interpreters are able to interpret Auslan into spoken English and spoken English back into Auslan.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
It may be necessary to employ the services of an interpreter if a Deaf or hard of hearing employee communicates solely in Auslan or if an employee speaks a language other than English. Interpreting may be required in a number of instances in the workplace such as:
- appraisals
- inductions
- interviews; or
- training sessions.
The Employment Assistance Fund provides financial assistance for Auslan services and adaptive technologies. More information about the Employment Assistance Fund is available at the following link:
Funding is also available from the Australian Government for provision of Auslan interpreters for private health or medical appointments:
The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) is a national 24 hour seven day a week service run by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship. It provides an interpreting service for people who do not speak English and for the English speakers who need to communicate with them in more than 160 languages or dialects.
References
Deaf Society of NSW 2010, Employment and Workplace Support: Auslan Interpreting in the Workplace, Deaf Society of NSW, Parramatta, viewed 20 May 2010, <http://www.deafsocietynsw.org.au/employment/auslan_interpreting_in_the_workplace.html>.
WA Deaf Society (no date), Auslan Interpreters, WA Deaf Society Inc, Perth, viewed 20 May 2010, http://www.wadeaf.org.au/index.php?id=53.