Translating and interpreting

Translating and Interpreting Service

The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is a language service provided by the Department of Home Affairs for people with limited or no English proficiency and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients. TIS National provides access to interpreters over the phone, via video conference, or to attend an appointment in person.

Immediate phone interpreting

TIS National's immediate phone interpreting service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year by calling 131 450.

The service is available to any individual or organisation in Australia. You can call TIS National on 131 450 for the cost of a local call throughout Australia. Charges for calls from mobile phones, or from outside of Australia may attract a higher rate depending on the service provider used.

The majority of TIS National interpreting services are free to non-English speakers.

Locati​​​ng interpreters and translators

The WA 'I need an interpreter' card

If you find it hard to communicate in English, then the Western Australian 'I need an interpreter' card will let government agencies know you need an interpreter and in what language. 

The WA 'I need an interpreter' card has been developed in accordance with the WA Language Services Policy.

The 'information for communities' document below explains how to use the card. To get a WA 'I need an interpreter' card email the Office of Multicultural Interests and we will post the card to you.

The National Interpreter Symbol, displayed on the right, can be downloaded from the Victorian Multicultural Commission's website

WA 'I need an interpreter' card information for communities

If you find it hard to communicate in English, this card will let government agencies know you need an interpreter.

How do I use the card?

Write the name of the language you speak or use on the front of the card in English. If you speak or use more than one language, write the other languages on the card in the order of strongest to weakest. Ask the person who gave you the card to help you with this if necessary. If you need help from an interpreter when using a government service, show your card to a staff member. They will try to arrange for an interpreter (either in person or by telephone) who speaks your language. If an interpreter who speaks your first language is not available, the staff member will try to find an interpreter who speaks your second or third language.

Who can get an interpreter card?

Anyone who needs help to communicate in English when using government services can get a card.

How much does the card cost?

The card is free. If you lose your card, you can get a new one for free. Where can I get a card? Cards are available from migrant resource centres, multicultural community service providers, some public hospitals, schools with Intensive English Centres, some local government authorities, the WA Deaf Society and the Kimberley Interpreting Service.

Information for communities

Translated versions are available in:

Page reviewed 19 January 2026