About translation services
Queensland Government agencies translate information into other languages to ensure effective communication with people who face barriers to communicating in English. Translations may be required in written, audio, or video formats, depending on the audience and context.
Translation differs from interpreting. It involves converting written or recorded content into another language and is typically priced by word count and production tasks. For example, typesetting, audio recording or transcription.
Timeframes and service types
Translation services are categorised by turnaround time, which influences the approach, quality and cost.
Translation technologies include artificial intelligence assisted translation (AIAT) and computer assisted translation (CAT). In line with Australian Government standards, human oversight is required for all AIAT and CAT translations.
| Service type | Turnaround time | Translation method | Booking considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
Rapid | Delivery within 3 hours | AIAT or CAT generated with human quality check | Requires prior setup with supplier. Suitable for pre-shared, shorter, plain-text content only. Not all languages supported. |
Urgent | Delivery within 36 hours | Human translation (may use AIAT/CAT), may not be peer reviewed | Best for short, plain-text content. Timeframes vary by language. |
Short Notice | Delivery within 72 hours | Human translation (may use AIAT/CAT), some quality checks possible | Suitable for moderately urgent needs. |
Planned | Delivery after 72 hours | Human translation with peer review and quality checks | Best quality outcomes, and complex or high-impact content. All formats supported. |
Translation methods
Human translation
- Carried out entirely by a human translator
- Best for accuracy, tone, nuance, cultural sensitivity, and complex content
- Recommended for legal, health, or sensitive materials
AIAT and CAT supported translation
- Faster turnaround with human editing
- Suitable for less complex content, not suitable for content involving consent, rights, or risk of harm
- Human review or oversight is required to ensure quality
- May involve tools that require privacy and cybersecurity clearance from agencies
AIAT and CAT checking
- Human review of AI-generated or CAT-developed translation
- Is required for all translations involving AIAT or CAT
- Is a growing role for translators
Peer review
- A second translator checks the work
- Ensures accuracy and refines wording
- Recommended for high quality or public facing materials
Translation production formats
Agencies must consider the format of the translated content. Some languages require audio instead of written text, and others may need layout adjustments due to space or orientation differences.
| Format | Description |
|---|---|
Basic text | Translated into a Word document or similar |
Typesetting | Layout and design for brochures, manuals and similar items |
Transcript development | Written version of audio or video content |
Audio | Voice recordings in the target language |
Video subtitles | Text synced with video content |
Auslan translation | Video of interpreter signing English text |
Website | Localised web content, layout, and navigation |
Sight translation
Sight translation involves an interpreter reading aloud a written English document in another language. This is considered an interpreter engagement, not a translation service. See the AUSIT guidelines for people who work with interpreters [PDF 283 KB].