The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS)

TIS National is an interpreting service, provided by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, for people who do not speak English and for the English speakers who need to communicate with them.

TIS National has more than 30 years of experience in the interpreting industry, and has access to over 1900 contracted interpreters across Australia, speaking more than 170 languages and dialects.

TIS National is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for any person or organisation in Australia requiring interpreting services.

It provides immediate telephone interpreting services, as well as pre-booked telephone and on-site interpreting.

Why should I use an interpreter?

Interpreters should be used:

• to ensure accurate communication between people who have different language needs
• because effective professional practice requires both parties to have a clear understanding of each other
• because in times of crisis or stress, a person’s second language competency may decrease
• because all Australians have the right to access services freely available to English speaking Australians – irrespective of their ethnic background and first language preference

When booking appointments for clients of your service  Companion House recommends strongly that you ask the client if they would like to have an interpreter booked for the appointment.

The phone number for the Telephone Interpreter Service is 131 450

If you would like free training on how to use interpreters call Companion House on 6251 4550

or use our Contact Us from and mark it Attn: Glenn Flanagan

Find out more about TIS by visiting:TIS National Site