So you want to be an Auslan interpreter?

What is NAATI?

The National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) is a public company. NAATI is responsible for accrediting interpreters of all Australian community languages, including Auslan. There are various levels of accreditation, from Paraprofessional (formerly Level 2) up to Conference Interpreter Senior (formerly Level 5). Currently, NAATI tests in Auslan only to Interpreter level (formerly Level 3). However, it is expected that in future, testing for Auslan interpreters will be available at higher levels.

How do I become an interpreter?

To become an interpreter, you must possess accreditation from NAATI. There are two ways to gain accreditation:

1. Pass an examination with NAATI
2. Successfully complete a TAFE or university course accredited by NAATI

NAATI is currently reviewing its accreditation procedures, and may require that aspiring interpreters complete appropriate courses before sitting NAATI exams. ASLIA (NSW) believes that interpreters should be trained professionals, and therefore strongly recommends the completion of a NAATI-accredited course.

Developing your skills

You must be fluent in both English and Auslan
Your fluency in Auslan must be at least equivalent to Certificate IV level (see below). If your Auslan skills are not at a fluent level, various courses are available, including the following.

• Auslan classes, which provide an introduction to the language and basic conversational skills, are provided by the Deaf Education Network (DEN) at certain evening colleges throughout NSW. Classes are one day/evening per week for 2 hours, for eight weeks. Various levels are offered.
• DEN also provides certificate courses up to Certificate IV. These courses require more time and commitment. Contact DEN for further information.
• Some TAFE colleges also run Certificate courses in Auslan over two years. Students attend 2 nights per week, a total of 6 hours per week.

Polishing your language skills
Some students may find that, having completed Auslan courses, they require some further training before they are ready to apply for an interpreting course. Currently there is one option available through TAFE (Penrith campus) which offers the Auslan Bridging Course over one semester (once a week for 3 hours). The course focuses on a range of language-developing activities aimed at increasing students' Auslan and English vocabularies and preparing them to meet the entry standard of an interpreting course. Please note that this course is not offered every year.

NB: When the full year Interpreting Diploma course is not available at Petersham, Petersham TAFE sometimes offers a one-semester NAATI Paraprofessional preparation course. This prepares students to sit the NAATI paraprofessional exam for that year.

Other skills required
Good general education (eventually all professional interpreters will be required to have a university degree in interpreting or another field)

• Broad general knowledge, including current affairs
• Good interpersonal skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, and behave in a professional manner
• Good powers of concentration and high memory retention

The accreditation pathway

Interpreters at all levels of accreditation are encouraged to develop their skills and knowledge by attending interpreting related courses, workshops and conferences. However any background knowledge, skill or qualification can be useful in supplementing your interpreting skills.