Communications and Language Support
Everyone deserves to be understood and to understand others. If you need help communicating in English or another language, or if you are d/Deaf, hard of hearing or have speech communication difficulties, support is available. These free and accessible services can help you share information clearly, take part in conversations and connect with your community.
Language Support – (Translation and Interpretation services)
Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) - 131 450
TIS National is an interpreting service for people with limited or no English language skills and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients. Their services enable people to independently access services and information in Australia.
There is also a phone interpreting service – 131 450.
Most TIS National services are free. See the website for more information.
Translating and Interpreting Service National
Google Translate
Google translate will turning information or conversations into another language in your browser or mobile phone (both Apple and Android).
Communicating with People Who Are d/Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or Have Speech Communication Difficulties
As a community that values lifelong learning and inclusion, it’s essential that everyone feels seen, heard, and respected, regardless of how they communicate. People who are d/Deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech communication difficulties may face barriers in everyday conversations, but with awareness and simple adjustments, we can all help create more accessible and welcoming interactions.
The links below provide information for communicating clearly and respectfully, supporting more equal access to services, opportunities, and learning for all members of our community.
Call someone who is d/Deaf, hard of hearing or has a speech communication difficulty
If you want to contact someone who is d/Deaf, hard of hearing and/or has a speech communication difficulty there are lots of different ways you can do this, instead of making a standard phone call.
A good place to start is to find out the person’s communication preferences, including any apps or devices they like to use.
Access Hub - Guide for hearing people
Ways to connect if you are d/Deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech communication difficulty
The National Relay Service (NRS) can help you if you’re d/Deaf or find it hard to hear or speak to hearing people on the phone.
About the National Relay Service
There are a lot of ways that people who are d/Deaf, hard of hearing or who have a speech communication difficulty can communicate directly with other people using smartphones, tablets and desktop computers. These options don’t use the National Relay Service.