Interpreting in Class 1 Emergencies

Why we did it

In response to the extensive flooding in Shepparton in October 2022, the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing approached CEH to develop and deliver training workshops for interpreters on how to relay accurate and timely information in emergency events.

What we did

Between March and June 2023, CEH facilitated 20 workshops, reaching 250 interpreters covering over 20 languages. On successful completion of the two-hour workshop participation certificates were issued to interpreters to claim 10 professional development points under the National Accreditation Authority of Translators and Interpreters recertification system.

In addition to the professional development recognition, to encourage attendance, eight workshops were offered online and 12 at on-site locations, including one in Shepparton.  Many interpreters were grateful for a face-to-face training which gave them the opportunity to socialise with fellow interpreters in their language.