All Australians have the right to communicate and engage with the Australian Government and other essential services, regardless of their cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
The department supports equitable access to essential government programs and other key services. We deliver language services for migrants to Australia and people with limited English skills.
TIS National
The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is a language service provided by the Department of Home Affairs.
TIS National services are available anywhere in Australia in more than 150 languages. Interpreting services are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
TIS National delivers the Free Translating Service and the Free Interpreting Service on behalf of the Australian Government.
Learn more about
TIS National.
Free Interpreting Service
The Free Interpreting Service (FIS) provides easy access to key services for people with limited English skills. This is important for conversations about technical, legal or health topics.
Learn more about the
Free Interpreting Service (FIS).
Free Translating Service
Many migrants to Australia have access to the Free Translating Service. This service supports access to employment, education and community engagement.
Learn more about the
Free Translating Service.
Additional key resources
National Interpreter Symbol
The National Interpreter Symbol is a national public information symbol. This image lets you know that they can ask for language help when you are using government and other services. Learn more about the
National Interpreter Symbol.
Australian Government Language Services Guidelines
The Australian Government Language Services Guidelines help Australian government staff working in Australia's linguistically diverse communities. This includes developing policy and administering programs and services.
The guidelines include:
National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI)
National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) is Australia’s national standards and certifying authority for translators and interpreters. It is a not-for-profit company. NAATI is owned by Australian state and territory governments. It is incorporated under the Corporations Act 2001.
NAATI's role is to set and maintain high national standards in translating and interpreting services. This ensures translating and interpreting professionals are appropriately credentialed. NAATI responds to the changing needs of Australia's linguistically diverse communities. Learn more about
NAATI.
Indigenous language interpreting services
The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) works in partnership to support the self-determination and aspirations of First Nations communities. NIAA implements the Australian Governments’ priorities and supports the Minister for Indigenous Australians. The NIAA website lists several interpreting services available across Australia. For more information, visit
National Indigenous Australians Agency.
Auslan interpreting services
Australian Sign Language (Auslan) services include:
