Interpreter access challenges
Queensland’s vast geography presents ongoing challenges in delivering equitable language services across regional, rural, and remote communities. A major barrier is the limited availability of interpreters for on-site bookings in these areas. This is compounded by difficulties in attracting and retaining interpreters, who often prefer assignments closer to home due to convenience and the lack of incentives for remote work.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Queensland have the right to access interpreters in their native languages. However, formal engagement of interpreters in these communities remains limited. Addressing this requires a coordinated set of strategies.
Language service provider (LSP) interpreter attraction and recruitment
Language service providers (LSPs) must demonstrate proactive approaches to recruiting interpreters in regional and rural areas with diverse language needs. This includes:
- partnering with local organisations and community groups to identify potential interpreters and promote interpreting as a viable career
- engaging with communities and educational institutions through targeted outreach and advertising
- offering competitive incentives to encourage interpreters to work in these locations.
Reimbursement for travel and accommodation
Until interpreter shortages are resolved, agencies must recognise and reimburse the additional costs of engaging on-site interpreters in regional areas. The PSP outlines provisions for shorter travel incentives and longer travel and accommodation expenses, which must be pre-approved in writing by agencies.
Travel and accommodation must be aligned Queensland public service entitlements under the Domestic Travelling and Relieving Expenses Directive 13/23.
A baseline shorter travel incentive has been developed, with an opportunity for customers to build on this and offer more benefits, where agreed. This approach is outlined in the Buyer’s Guide and Language Services Travel Guideline on the Queensland Government Arrangements Directory.
Utilising video and telephone interpreting
Remote interpreting via video or telephone offers significant cost savings and flexibility. Agencies in regional, rural, and remote areas are encouraged to adopt these technologies. To do so, services must:
- be equipped with appropriate technology to support remote interpreting
- train staff in engaging interpreters via these platforms
- partner with LSPs to trial and evaluate remote interpreting as an alternative to on-site bookings.
Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander language access
Queensland Government agencies must ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can access trained interpreters in language. The use of untrained community members is not a substitute for professional interpretation. LSPs must implement culturally appropriate strategies to recruit and support interpreters in these communities, particularly in regional and remote areas.