Multicultural NSW and the NSW Police Force have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to give police access to one of the country’s most extensive translating and interpreting services.
Minister for Police, Paul Toole said the MOU would see Police have access to translators and interpreters statewide, offering round the clock assistance in more than 100 different languages.
“This is a big win for police, local communities and those visiting our great state who may come in contact with police, but struggle with English,” Mr Toole said.
“When an incident arises it’s crucial that police have the tools they need to break down language barriers so they can communicate effectively and achieve positive outcomes,” he said.
“Police currently have access to more than 25 Multicultural Liaison Officers spread across the State to engage with communities at a grass roots level.”
Mr Toole said the new, updated MOU would give police officers access to Multicultural NSW’s full suite of language services at all local area commands across the State.
“These kinds of language services are more important than ever with more overseas travellers choosing to visit our regions and a record number of new arrivals and refugees choosing to work and settle in areas like Albury and Wagga Wagga,” he said.
“These regional communities can now be assured that they will have stronger communications support whenever they come into contact with their local police.”
Minister for Multiculturalism, Mark Coure said the MOU would help Police overcome language barriers and improve relationship within communities.
“We have more than 1,400 language professionals that can be called on by Police around the clock to support face-to-face, online or even over the phone interpreting and translating so they can better serve the people of NSW,” Mr Coure said.
“This MOU is also a major job creator for interpreters and translators—with a greater demand for our language services comes more job opportunities and new career pathways,” he said.
“We know there are people right across NSW who are eager to use their language skills to become translators and interpreters.”
