DoCS continues Interpreting Scheme
DoCS introduced a scheme on 1 July to ensure DoCS-funded services working with families who speak little or no English can continue to use interpreting services, following the Commonwealth Government’s decision to withdraw its support of free interpreters for services funded by NSW Government agencies.
Under the scheme, DoCS will meet the cost of interpreting services for non-government organisations who receive grants funding so they can obtain appropriate language assistance and support.
DoCS has arranged for interpreting services to be available through Translating and Interpreting Services (TIS). The scheme only applies to DoCS-funded organisations that don’t already have arrangements for free interpreting.
If an organisation is registered, they can access telephone or on-site interpreters – at no cost to them – to provide a communication channel between staff members and clients.
Some DoCS-funded services are not registered with TIS. To access the scheme, organisations need to complete the Exemption from charges for interpreting services application form. Click here to download the form.
Send applications to the DoCS Multicultural Services Unit at Locked Bag 28, Ashfield, NSW, 1800; or fax 9716 2983. For more information, email mark.drury@community.nsw.gov.au