SLC NSW maintains a register of part-time interpreters. Most interpreters are employed on a casual basis. The register includes contact information, accreditation details, availability and preferred areas of work. On commencing employment with SLC NSW, each interpreter will be required to advise SLC NSW of their availability, and update this regularly. Interpreters are expected to contact the service, either personally or by phone to receive an orientation information package. Interpreters are also asked to meet with the Manager, SLC NSW or their delegate.

Employment of interpreters and allocation of assignments are at the discretion of the SLC NSW service. The service endeavours to secure the most appropriately skilled interpreter for each assignment and the following is taken into consideration when contacting interpreters:

• level of accreditation (interpreters with higher accreditation are considered more favourably)
• client preference (deaf and hearing)
• interpreter qualifications, training and experience and
• whether the interpreter is a part of NAATI’s revalidation system

Accreditation
The National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) is the body which accredits interpreters in all languages, including Auslan.

SLC NSW aims to employ NAATI-accredited interpreters only, except in the case of Deaf (Relay) Interpreters, for whom no NAATI accreditation currently exists. In the case of Deaf relay interpreters, preference is given to those who have completed a TAFE course in Deaf (Relay) Interpreting.

In non-metropolitan areas, due to a lack of NAATI-accredited, Auslan/English interpreters assignments will occasionally be undertaken by non-accredited practitioners. This will occur only where the person has been assessed by SLC NSW staff as having sufficient skill and experience to undertake the assignment. If an unaccredited individual wishes to be considered for inclusion on the Interpreting Register, they must firstly attend an assessment interview. This will involve demonstrating both receptive and expressive skills in interpreting between Auslan and English, and knowledge of interpreting ethics and social/cultural aspects of the Deaf community. Employment will also be subject to a written commitment to sit for the next available NAATI exam. Should the person not sit the exam, or fail to pass this exam, they may no longer be eligible for work from SLC NSW.

SLC NSW is committed to the employment of accredited interpreters. In every instance, the Interpreting Services Officers will endeavour to allocate an accredited interpreter. In the event that an unaccredited interpreter is allocated, all parties at the assignment will be informed.

Interpreters employed by SLC NSW will be required to sign a Confidentiality Agreement (refer to Appendix 3 for a copy) and adhere to the Australian Sign Language Interpreters Association (ASLIA) Code of Ethics (refer to Section 4).