How to Become an Auslan Interpreter: A Step-by-Step Guide
Auslan, Australia’s primary sign language used by the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community, is an essential tool for effective communication. With the growing need for inclusion and accessibility, there’s a significant demand for skilled Auslan interpreters in various sectors like healthcare, education, legal services, and community events. If you’re interested in becoming an Auslan interpreter, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start your journey.
What Does an Auslan Interpreter Do?
An Auslan interpreter plays a crucial role in bridging communication gaps between hearing individuals and the Deaf community. They translate spoken English into Auslan and vice versa, ensuring that both parties can understand each other accurately. This may happen in various settings, such as medical appointments, workplace meetings, educational environments, or community events. Interpreters are expected to convey not just the words but also the meaning, context, and emotions behind the communication, making it an essential and rewarding job.
Skills and Qualities Needed to Become an Auslan Interpreter
Becoming an Auslan interpreter requires more than just fluency in the language. Here are the key skills and qualities needed to succeed in this role:
- Fluency in Auslan: The most fundamental requirement is to be proficient in Auslan. This means understanding grammar, vocabulary, non-manual features (such as facial expressions), and the cultural nuances of the Deaf community.
- Effective Communication Skills: As an interpreter, you must be able to convey information clearly and accurately between languages. This requires both excellent comprehension skills and the ability to express complex ideas in a concise and understandable manner.
- Cultural Competence: Understanding the Deaf culture is essential for interpreting effectively. Being aware of cultural differences and respecting the community’s values will enhance the accuracy and authenticity of your work.
- Emotional Intelligence: Interpreters often work in sensitive or high-pressure situations, such as medical emergencies or legal proceedings. Having emotional resilience and the ability to remain calm and focused is crucial.
Steps to Becoming an Auslan Interpreter
Here’s a step-by-step roadmap to becoming a qualified Auslan interpreter:
Step 1: Learn Auslan
The first step is to learn the language itself. Start with a foundational course like the Certificate II in Auslan, which will introduce you to the basics of the language, its grammar, and essential signs used in everyday communication. Once you complete the Certificate II, you can gain credit for the units completed when you move on to the Certificate III in Auslan. This makes your progression smoother and more cost-effective as you advance through your studies.
After completing the Certificate III, you can also receive credit when enrolling in the Certificate IV in Auslan, and ultimately in the Diploma of Auslan (PSP51018). This creates a clear pathway for you to develop your skills progressively. The full pathway, from Certificate II to the Diploma, typically takes about two years to complete, with each course taking approximately six months to finish.
At Diamond Valley Learning Centre (DVLC), we offer a supportive and immersive environment where you can develop your Auslan skills, starting with the Certificate II in Auslan course. Our experienced trainers will guide you through practical exercises and real-life scenarios to help you gain confidence and competence in Auslan.
The next step in your professional journey would be to pursue the Diploma of Interpreting (Auslan) PSP50922, which will open up opportunities to work as a professional interpreter.
Step 2: Gain Practical Experience
Theory is important, but practice is essential. To develop your interpreting skills, seek out opportunities for practical experience. Volunteer at Deaf community events, shadow professional interpreters, or participate in internships. Gaining hands-on experience will help you refine your skills and understand the nuances of interpreting in different contexts.
Step 3: Obtain Certification
To work as a professional Auslan interpreter in Australia, you’ll need to become accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI). This certification is a requirement for many employers and ensures that you meet industry standards. NAATI offers different levels of certification, starting with Professional Interpreter and progressing to Senior Interpreter.
Step 4: Pursue Ongoing Training and Specialisation
Like any profession, continuous learning is vital. As an interpreter, you may choose to specialise in specific fields such as legal interpreting, medical interpreting, or community interpreting. Each of these areas requires additional training to ensure accuracy and ethical standards. Attending workshops, conferences, and staying up-to-date with Auslan resources will help you advance in your career.
Career Opportunities for Auslan Interpreters
Once you’re certified, numerous career opportunities await. You can work as a freelance interpreter, provide interpreting services for government agencies, healthcare institutions, schools, or community organisations. Some interpreters choose to work full-time, while others combine interpreting with other roles.
Start Your Auslan Interpreter Journey Today
Becoming an Auslan interpreter is a rewarding and meaningful career path that allows you to make a significant impact in your community. Whether you’re passionate about language, culture, or social inclusion, this profession offers endless opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Ready to get started? Enroll in our Certificate II in Auslan course at Diamond Valley Learning Centre (DVLC) and take the first step toward becoming an Auslan interpreter. Our supportive environment and expert trainers will help you on your journey to success.