Some languages have very few or no NAATI-certified interpreters or translators available in Australia. If you need language services in these situations, this article explains some options.

Contact a language service provider

Language service providers may be able to find a translator or interpreter with work experience and training, even if they don’t have NAATI certification. Ask about their experience and request references.

Use a team approach for interpreting

In some situations, you can ask a bilingual person who speaks the language to interpret alongside a NAATI-certified interpreter who speaks a related language. This team approach provides quality assurance as the certified interpreter can advise the bilingual person on how to interpret accurately; however, it may be slower and take a longer time than usual.

Contact international organisations

Try reaching out to:

• Embassy, High Commission or Consulate offices
• Overseas translator and interpreter accreditation bodies
• Overseas translator and interpreter professional associations
  • AIIC (the International Association of Conference Interpreters)
  • International Federation of Translators (see membership list to see all member countries and their professional associations)
  • ATA (the American Translators Association)
  • NZSTI (the New Zealand Society of Translators and Interpreters)
• Overseas language service providers

Need translation by a NAATI-certified translator?

If a government agency or university requires a NAATI-certified translation and none are available in your language, contact NAATI. We can give you a letter confirming that no certified translators are available in your language.

Important warning: do not use family or friends as interpreters

NAATI strongly advises against using family members, partners, friends or children as interpreters, especially in important situations like:

• Medical appointments
• Legal matters
• Official government services

See our advice on the difference between a bilingual person and an interpreter here.

Need help?

If you’re unsure what to do, contact NAATI or a language service provider for advice on the best option for your situation.