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Settle in Australia

Help our newest arrivals build their lives in Australia.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Free Interpreting Service​


Overview

The Free Interpreting Service (FIS) provides fair access to key services for people with limited or no English language skills. Engaging a credentialed interpreter can help these clients to access essential services. This is important for conversations about technical, legal or health topics.

Using the FIS is quick and simple. It takes just a few minutes for eligible service providers to register and connect to an interpreter.

Access to the FIS is not time-limited and is available on an ongoing basis. Once approved, eligible service providers can use FIS to communicate with anyone in Australia who is eligible for Medicare and needs an interpreter.

Eligible service provider groups

The Free Interpreting Service (FIS) is available for specific service providers who are not substantially government funded. The following service provider groups can access the FIS:

  • Medical practitioners when delivering Medicare-rebatable services in private practice. This includes:
    • general practitioners
    • nurse practitioners
    • endorsed midwives
    • approved medical specialists
    • reception and other practice support staff can also access the service when working with the registered medical practitioner
  • Pharmacies, for community pharmacy services
  • Non-government organisations (NGOs), for approved casework and emergency services, where the organisation does not receive substantial government funding to provide these services
  • Real estate agencies, to discuss any private residential property matter
  • Local government authorities, to communicate about most local government services 
  • Trade unions, to help workers to access support and advice
  • Parliamentarians, for constituency purposes
  • Eligible allied health professionals, to deliver professional services in private practice located in specific local government areas (LGA).

Based on eligibility, service providers may be able to access a range of FIS options. This includes:

  • immediate phone interpreting
  • pre-booked phone, on-site and video remote interpreting.

More information

For more information about the FIS, including how to register for a client code and access services visit the Free Interpreting Service website.

If you need help with registering or have question about eligibility, please contact TIS National’s Free Interpreting Service team by email at tis.freeinterpreting@homeaffairs.gov.au.