Queensland Indigenous Interpreting Service

Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people speak several languages and may use English as a second, third or fourth language. Working with a qualified Indigenous interpreter shows respect for people’s first languages, reduces miscommunication and supports safer, fairer decisions in health, legal and community settings.

QIIS interpreters and translators:

• Work across spoken Indigenous languages and Cultural Sign Language.
• Follow the AUSIT Code of Ethics – accuracy, confidentiality, impartiality and professionalism.
• Are trained to interpret complex legal, health and government concepts in culturally safe ways.
• Provide cross‑cultural information so everyone understands the cultural context of what is said.

If you are unsure whether your client fully understands English, or can explain their situation clearly, it is safer to book an interpreter than to rely on family members, staff or yes/no questions.

QIIS provides interpreting and translation wherever accurate, culturally safe communication is needed. This includes:

• Health and hospital appointments, mental health, disability and community services.
• Police, courts, corrections, child safety and other justice or statutory settings.
• Government and service provider meetings, consultations and community engagements.
• Written documents, forms, letters, policies, health information and emergency messages.
• Websites, apps, SMS campaigns, posters, videos, radio and community announcements.

Each job is managed through a quality‑assured process using appropriate interpreters, cultural support and review to ensure accuracy and cultural integrity.