The Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) has issued a Memorandum setting out the expectations of NSW public sector Agencies providing language interpretation services when dealing with clients.
M2021-04 Language Services Provision in Multicultural NSW replaces its 2016 equivalent.
In the new Memorandum, the Premier says that since July 1998, Government Agencies had been required to fund the provision of language services when dealing with clients, in order to provide all clients with access to Government services.
“NSW Government agencies are expected to ensure that interpreting services are provided to clients when needed,” the DPC said.
“And that appropriate translated materials are made available to support service delivery, promote workplace safety, and encourage business and commerce within New South Wales and in international trade,” it said.
“NSW Government Agencies are also required to ensure that contracts with private providers and funding agreements with non-government organisations identify a budget for interpreting and translating, appropriate to the services provided and the needs of the clients of the service.”
The memorandum also says Agencies are also required to ensure that appropriate monitoring processes are included in contracts or funding agreements with private providers.
It said the lead NSW Government Agency for interpreting and translating services was Multicultural NSW and further information on language service provision could be obtained on the Agency’s website.
The new Memorandum can be accessed on the DPC at this PS News link.
