Interpreting & Translation referrals in Darwin, NT

Auslan interpreting, spoken-language interpreting and document translation so Deaf participants and those from CALD backgrounds can take part on equal terms.

Interpreting and translation supports help NDIS participants who are Deaf, hard of hearing, or from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds to communicate and take part in their supports. They cover Auslan and other sign-language interpreting, spoken-language interpreting, and the translation of written documents into a participant's preferred language.

These supports exist so that a participant's disability or language background does not become a barrier to understanding their plan, engaging with providers, attending appointments and assessments, or making informed decisions. Interpreting can be delivered in person, by phone or by video remote interpreting, while translation converts written material such as reports, forms and provider information into another language.

The NDIA arranges and pays for interpreting when a participant engages directly with the Agency or its community partners, for example a planning meeting, at no cost to the plan. Interpreting or translation needed to access a participant's funded supports can be included in their plan. Interpreters and translators in Australia are typically credentialed through NAATI (the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters).

Coordinator FAQs

Does interpreting come out of the participant's plan budget?
Not always. The NDIA arranges and pays for interpreting when a participant engages directly with the Agency or its community partners, such as a planning meeting, at no cost to the plan. Interpreting or translation needed to access a funded support can be included in the plan. Check which situation applies before assuming the…
Do interpreters and translators need to be NAATI certified?
NAATI is the national credentialing body for translators and interpreters in Australia, and NAATI-certified practitioners are the expected standard for NDIS work. Registration in this support group does not legally mandate certification, but it is best practice, especially for assessments, or medical and legal content. Confirm the…
Is registration required to deliver interpreting and translation?
No. Interpreting and translation is not one of the supports the law requires providers to be registered for, unlike specialist disability accommodation or regulated behaviour support. However, participants whose plans are NDIA-managed must use NDIS-registered providers. Plan-managed and self-managed participants can choose registered or…
What is the difference between an Auslan interpreter and a Deaf interpreter?
An Auslan interpreter works between spoken English and Auslan. A Deaf interpreter is a Deaf professional who works alongside the Auslan interpreter to reach participants who use non-standard signing, have additional disability, or are deafblind. Some appointments need both. Ask the participant or their family what they use, and specify it…
Can interpreting be delivered by phone or video?
Yes. Spoken-language interpreting can be delivered in person, by phone or by video, and Auslan can be delivered by video remote interpreting (VRI). Remote delivery can reduce travel costs and speed up access in regional areas, but in-person interpreting may suit complex, sensitive or long appointments better. Confirm the participant's…
Can plan documents and reports be translated?
Yes. Document translation covers written material such as provider information, therapy or assessment reports, consent forms and plan-related documents, converted into the participant's preferred language. This helps CALD participants understand their supports and make informed decisions. Specify which documents, the target language and…
How do I refer for a specific language or dialect?
State the exact language and dialect in your referral, not just the country of origin, because many languages have distinct dialects and a mismatch can make interpreting ineffective. Note any cultural preferences, such as interpreter gender, and whether the participant needs the same interpreter over time for continuity. Novida lets you…
What should I do for a participant who is deafblind?
Specify deafblind communication needs clearly, as these participants may need tactile signing, hand-over-hand Auslan, or a Deaf interpreter working with a hearing interpreter. Not every Auslan provider offers this, so confirm the provider's experience with deafblind communication before referring. Allow extra time in appointments and note…