Sign Language Interpreting as a Career

Why are sign language interpreters needed?

Each country has its own sign language and in Australia, the language is called Auslan (Australian Sign Language). Auslan is a language in its own right and is not simply a manual form of English. It is a visual-spatial language with meaning expressed in signs, which include body movement and facial expression.

For Deaf people to access the community and enjoy the same rights as other people in NSW, the services of a qualified Auslan interpreter are often required, particularly in important life situations.

What is an interpreter?

An interpreter is a qualified professional who assists with communication between two or more people who do not use the same language. The interpreter receives and understands a message from one person expressed in a particular language. The interpreter then converts the message into another language and transmits this message to the other party. Interpreting can take place consecutively (alternating chunks of information) or simultaneously (receiving and delivering both languages at the same time).

Auslan/English interpreters must be bilingual in Auslan and English so that they can facilitate communication between Deaf and hearing people. They also need to have a sound knowledge of the social and cultural aspects of the Deaf community and are required to follow a Code of Ethics.

When is an Auslan interpreter needed?

Situations in which a qualified interpreter may be needed include:

• Medical appointments, including visits to doctors, specialists, community health centres and hospitals
• Legal matters, including police interviews, meetings with lawyers and in court
• Education, such as schools, TAFEs and universities
• Appointments with banks and/or financial institutions
• Employment-related situations, such as job interviews, meetings and training courses
• Special occasions, such as weddings and funerals
• Public functions, including performances, conferences and political rallies.

How do I become an interpreter?

Potential interpreters need a combination of educational and professional qualifications and personal qualities. The National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters accredits interpreters at Paraprofessional level (formerly Level 2) and Interpreter level (formerly Level 3). See So You Want to be an Auslan Interpreter for more information.

How many Auslan interpreters are there?

There is an ongoing shortage of qualified practitioners to meet the interpreting demands of Deaf people who use Auslan as their preferred means of communication.

According to a study conducted by the Department of Family and Community Services in 2004, there were 18 Auslan interpreters accredited at Interpreter level and 120 accredited at Para-professional level in NSW.

Most interpreters work on a part-time or casual basis.

Which agencies employ Auslan interpreters?

Many interpreters work on a freelance basis, which means negotiating work directly with the person who wishes to use their services. A number of interpreting agencies and other organisations also employ interpreters on a casual or part-time basis. See Employers.

How much are interpreters paid?

The amount an interpreter can earn depends on their qualifications, how often and how long they work and the organisation/s for whom the interpreter works. The actual rate is determined by negotiation between the parties involved. ASLIA (NSW) does not promote a particular pay rate or scale but, as a guide, interpreters are generally paid in the range $30 - $60 per hour.

ASLIA (NSW) does not recommend the use of interpreters who are unaccredited.