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National Interpreter Symbol

The Interpreter Symbol is a national public information symbol developed by Victoria in partnership with the Commonwealth, state and territory governments. The symbol provides a simple way of indicating where people with limited English proficiency can ask for language assistance when using government services.

You may see the symbol in places that deliver government and community information and services such as public hospitals, police stations, state schools, community centres, housing and employment offices, local councils and migrant resource centres.

The Interpreter Symbol was officially launched in Victoria in May 2006.

What is language assistance?

Using an interpreter is one of a number of ways of helping service providers to communicate with people who have limited English proficiency. Language assistance can also include:

translated information
assistance from a bilingual staff member (who has received appropriate training)
multimedia resources (e.g. a multilingual CD-ROM)
multilingual information on web sites
multilingual telephone information.

The appropriate form of language assistance depends on the situation. Many government agencies have language services policies to guide staff in determining when and what type of assistance to provide. Staff can also refer to the Victorian Government’s policy guide: Improving the Use of Translating and Interpreting Services.

Using the symbol

All government service organisations are encouraged to use the symbol and promote it to their members and clients. You can download the Interpreter Symbol:

National Interpter Symbol with text

National Interpreter Symbol without text

In orderd to view EPS files you will need to have Adobe Photoshop installed on your PC.

Interpreter Symbol resources

The following resources can be used by organisations using and promoting the symbol:

Interpreter Symbol – guidelines for use (PDF 227 kb), an information brochure on the appropriate use of the Interpreter Symbol. It includes guidelines for staff about ordering, producing, displaying and maintaining Interpreter Symbol signage.
Interpreter Symbol - multilingual poster a poster (PDF 385 kb) an A2 sized poster featuring 30 languages (including English) aimed at promoting the Interpreter Symbol to people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
Interpreter Symbol – stickers, available in two sizes. The large sticker (200 x 200mm) can be used as signage. The small sticker comes in sheets of 10 and can be used as ‘interpreter alert’ tags in client files. This is available only in hard copy.
Interpreter Symbol tent card (PDF 131 kb). A three-dimensional, foldable card that sits in a triangular shape and can be placed on reception counters or tables in client contact areas. It features the Interpreter Symbol and reads: ‘Language services available here.’

How to order Interpreter Symbol resources

The resources listed above are all available free-of-charge. To order these resources, email an order form (Word 131 kb) to orders@wfds.com.au or fax/post to:

Theary Rath
WFDS
47-53 Hallam Valley Rd,
Dandenong South, VIC 3175
Fax: (03) 9793 0211

Development of the symbol

The Interpreter Symbol was developed and tested by the Victorian Multicultural Commission with assistance from the Commonwealth, state and territory governments. The symbol was one of five variations designed and tested in Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia and New South Wales with over 580 people from a range of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Testing was conducted according to Australian Standard 2342: Development, testing and implementation of information and safety symbols and symbolic signs.

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