Boost to mental health

interpreting services

Making sure all Australians can access mental health services no matter their background is an Australian Government priority.

3 February 2023

THE Federal Government is investing $7.8 million in interpreting services through Translating and Interpreting Services (TIS) National for people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.

Language services mean people with limited or no English language proficiency can access the services and programs they need, removing a significant barrier faced by Australians from multicultural backgrounds who seek mental health support.

Assistant Minister Emma McBride said “Every Australian wherever they live, or language they speak deserves affordable, quality and accessible mental health care.

“With one in five Australians speaking a language other than English at home, we are determined to improve access to mental health care through quality, safe interpreting services.”

With this funding, interpreting services will now be available through Primary Health Network-commissioned mental health services including headspace and adult mental health services.

Currently, people from CALD communities seek mental health services at much lower rates than the general population, in part due to issues navigating the mental health system.

Removing barriers by improving access to interpreters will support more people to get the help they need to live well and thrive.

“Australia’s official interpreting services deliver high-quality, cost-effective and secure interpreting services for people who do not speak English and for agencies and businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients,” said Assistant Minister McBride.

“The Albanese Government is investing $7.8 million to make sure people from CALD backgrounds can access help and support where, when and how they need it.”