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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
(Note: this site is under construction and all the questions are listed on the one long page, for the time being. Unfortunately you have to manually scroll down to read the answers to the questions below, with the exception of
Section 5, which has working links. Click on the underlined words.)
SECTION 1: ABOUT AUSIT
1.1 What is AUSIT?
1.2 What is AUSIT not?
1.3 What is the difference between AUSIT & NAATI?
SECTION 2: FOR THOSE WHO NEED THE SERVICES OF A TRANSLATOR OR INTERPRETER
2.1 What is the difference between translation and interpreting?
2.2 Why do I need to employ a qualified translator or interpreter when so many people in Australia are bilingual?
2.3 How can AUSIT help me find the translation or interpreting services I need?
2.4 What is the difference between hiring a freelance translator or interpreter and going through an agency?
2.5 How do I find a translator or interpreter for rare languages? No one is listed in the AUSIT or NAATI directory.
2.6 I need an 'official' or 'certified' translation for legal or immigration purposes, how can AUSIT help me?
2.7 I need a large technical document or brochure to be translated; how should I go about it?
2.8 I've heard that computers can translate documents - what is the advantage in employing a human translator?
2.9 How much will my translation or interpreting job cost?
2.10 How long will my translation job take?
2.11 How can I be sure the translator or interpreter I am employing has done a good job?
2.12 What can I do if I am unhappy about the translation or interpreting service I have received?
SECTION 3: FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO BECOME A PROFESSIONAL TRANSLATOR OR INTERPRETER
3.1 What attributes do I need to become a translator?
3.2 What attributes do I need to become an interpreter?
3.3 How long will it take to qualify and how much will it cost?
3.4 I am a Year 10 student. What can you tell me about translation and interpreting as a career?
3.5 Does AUSIT offer courses in translation and interpreting or have a list of recommended courses in translation and interpreting? If not, how can I find a suitable course?
3.6 Can I work as a translator or interpreter without having a degree or specialised language qualification?
3.7 What office/other equipment will I need if I want to work as a freelance translator/interpreter?
3.8 What computer software and hardware will I need to work as a freelance translator/interpreter?
3.9 Where can I find employment as a translator and/or interpreter?
3.10 Which areas of the translation/interpreting market are growing and which are shrinking?
3.11 How long does it take to become established as a translator and/or interpreter?
3.12 What can I do to keep my skills up to date or upgrade them?
3.13 How much should I charge for my services?
3.14 How many words per day can an average translator handle?
3.15 How many hours do interpreters work at a time?
3.16 How long is an average interpreting assignment?
3.17 What will give me a cutting edge as a translator or interpreter?
3.18 Will I need to specialise as a translator and/or interpreter?
3.19 How much money do translators and interpreters make annually?
3.20 Do I need to take out professional indemnity insurance to work as a translator or interpreter?
SECTION 4: FOR THOSE ALREADY WORKING AS PROFESSIONAL TRANSLATORS & INTERPRETERS BUT WHO ARE NOT AUSIT MEMBERS
4.1 Why should I join AUSIT? What can it offer me?
4.2 What do I have to do to join AUSIT and how much does it cost?
4.3 Can I join AUSIT if I live overseas or am not an Australian citizen?
4.4 I qualified as a translator or interpreter in a country outside Australia. Are my overseas qualifications recognised here? If not what do I need to do to practice within Australia?
4.5 I am a professional interpreter/translator in my own country. I want to migrate to Australia. Will I find a market in Australia?
4.6 I have just arrived from overseas and have no contacts here. How can I be sponsored to join AUSIT?
4.7 I have just arrived from overseas – how can I find out about the business side of setting up as a translator or interpreter? (e.g. ABN (Australian Business Number); GST (Goods & Services Tax); market practices; rates; demand for my language etc).
4.8 Do I need to take out professional indemnity insurance to work as a translator or interpreter in Australia?
4.9 How can I be listed in AUSIT’s directory of Translators and Interpreters?
4.10 What events does AUSIT offer? How can I find out about them?
SECTION 5: NAVIGATING THE AUSIT WEBSITE
5.1 How can I get the most out of my listing on the AUSIT website?
5.2 My details have changed. How do I update them?
5.3 What is in the members' section of the website and how do I access it?
5.4 I don’t want to list my street address on the website. What are my options?
5.5 How can I join an AUSIT language group?
5.6 I am not on email at the moment. How can I receive notice of events?
5.7 How can I subscribe to the eBulletin?
5.8 What can I do to make sure that eBulletin messages do not flood my mailbox?
5.9 How can I contact my local administrator?
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SECTION 1: ABOUT AUSIT
1.1 What is AUSIT?
AUSIT, the Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators is the national professional association for translators and interpreters. It also welcomes as members other individuals or organisations interested in the profession, such as translation and interpreting agencies and educational bodies teaching translation and interpreting.
AUSIT welcomes and fosters close associations with other persons or organisations who have an interest in translation, interpreting or languages in general such as consulates, diplomatic missions, language students and members of the public.
AUSIT runs workshops, conferences, training courses and professional development seminars. AUSIT also provides support to aspiring professionals and members with information on industry-related matters, collective insurance arrangements, networking opportunities and communication with government agencies and international associations.
AUSIT provides an up-to-date and comprehensive on-line directory of practising professional translators and interpreters who adhere to a code of ethics.
For further information, please click on the About AUSIT section of this website. If you would like to apply for membership of AUSIT, please click here.
1.2 What is AUSIT not?
AUSIT is not a translation and interpreting agency nor is it a teaching college or university. AUSIT is not a trade union, though it does lobby on behalf of its members.
AUSIT is not an accreditation body. Full members of AUSIT have already qualified as translators and interpreters by either academic training or by passing an examination set by NAATI. (See 1.3)
AUSIT does not provide work in the translation and interpreting field, however many AUSIT members have found work by networking with colleagues.
1.3 What is the difference between AUSIT & NAATI?
AUSIT (Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators Incorporated) is the national professional association for interpreters and translators - see 1 and 2 above).
NAATI (The National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters) is a national standards body part owned by the Commonwealth, State and Territory Government of Australia. NAATI tests and accredits translators and interpreters in Australia and overseas. It also approves tertiary-level courses in translation and interpreting providing they fulfil a stringent set of criteria.
AUSIT and NAATI work together to set, maintain and monitor standards in the translation & interpreting profession in Australia. For example AUSIT respects and promotes NAATI accreditation as the basic qualification for practising as a translator or interpreter in Australia. NAATI endorses and promotes the AUSIT Code of Ethics for interpreters and translators. For more information on NAATI, go to http://www.naati.com.au
SECTION TWO – FOR THOSE WHO NEED THE SERVICES OF A TRANSLATOR OR INTERPRETER
2.1 What is the difference between translation and interpreting?
Translation deals with the written word while interpreting deals with the spoken word.
A translator works from a document written in one language (the source text) translating it into another language (the target language) while an interpreter facilitates communication between people who speak different languages, or use sign language. An interpreter listens to a person speaking or signing in one language (eg Italian) and repeats what they have said in a different language (eg English) to another person.
2.2 Why do I need to employ a qualified translator or interpreter when so many people in Australia are bilingual?
Would you hire a handyman to rewire your house or a legal secretary to draft your will? Both know something about the task, but would you have confidence they could do the job properly? Interpreters and translators are specialists with qualifications and experience. A qualified person can add value to your business, whereas an unqualified person may cost you business.
Just because a person is bilingual doesn’t mean they are experts in those languages or have the tools and methodology to undertake an assignment. The professional interpreter or translator is likely to have specialist dictionaries, web-based language aids, professional indemnity insurance, modern computer equipment and an understanding of professional ethics. Professional translators and interpreters engage in ongoing specialist training and have a vast and specialised vocabulary.
Language transfer is a highly developed skill. For example, interpreters have to think on their feet, concentrate for long periods of time, acquire fast note-taking skills and conserve their voice. Translators need to be able to research subject material, locate specialised terms quickly, convey the appropriate style or register of the original document, come up with translations for names, as well as create new terms and do it quickly – these skills are only acquired through training and practice on a regular basis. In addition, a qualified translator/interpreter needs a thorough, in-depth knowledge of the grammar of the target and source languages plus professional writing skills to handle different types of texts.
Sometimes a qualified practitioner must be engaged – for example in translation of legal and immigration documents and court interpreting.
Any bilingual person will not do – unless you don’t care about the message you are sending.
2.3 How can AUSIT help me find the translation or interpreting services I need?
AUSIT members are qualified interpreters and translators; they take their work seriously and adhere to a strict code of ethics.
AUSIT is Australia’s leading professional association of practising translators and interpreters. The AUSIT website carries Australia's most up-to-date and comprehensive on-line directory of practitioners, information and advice for consumers and includes a search facility which enables you to narrow down your search for a translator or interpreter. You can search by language, experience and location, by practitioner name and even link up to practitioner websites for further information.
If you are unable to find a practitioner with your language combination, try contacting the AUSIT administration for assistance by sending an e-mail to: national@ausit.org. You can telephone 1800 284 181.
2.4 What is the difference between hiring a freelance translator or interpreter and going through an agency?
A freelance translator or interpreter does the actual work. An agency acts as a service broker.
If you require ongoing translation or interpreting services it is worth building up a solid relationship with a competent practitioner. On the other hand, some agencies offer valuable additional services such as proofreading, editing, quality control and desktop publishing. If you need to translate your document into several languages an agency is probably a better choice as they have access to a wide range of practitioners.
Check the credentials of any freelancer or agency to work out who will serve your purpose best.
2.5 How do I find a translator or interpreter for rare languages? No one is listed in the AUSIT or NAATI directory.
You can contact AUSIT by e-mail: national@ausit.org. or telephone: 1800 284 181. The administration may be able to help or refer you to an agency who can.
Otherwise try contacting the major government language service providers like TIS (Translation & Interpreting Service); or Centrelink, who may have somebody with your language combination on their books. You could also check the phone book for community organisations for that language.
To track down a qualified translator in a rare language, try one of the reputable Internet translation sites such as ProZ http://www.proz.com
2.6 I need an 'official' or 'certified' translation for legal or immigration purposes, how can AUSIT help me?
Accredited translators can stamp and certify their translations with their NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators & Interpreters) number. The AUSIT translator database only lists accredited translators. Ask your chosen translator to certify your document.
Sometimes if an 'official' translation is required, you may need to contact the embassy or consulate of the country concerned. In some cases they will only accept a translation if it is done by a translator on their in-house list.
2.7 I need a large technical document or brochure to be translated; how should I go about it?
Check the AUSIT website here for translators in your language combination who specialise in your subject area.
Once you have established a shortlist of suitable candidates, ask them for a quote and timeline. Check they have undertaken previous work in the field to make sure they can deliver the level of service required. Ask for examples of previous work or references if you are unsure.
Once you have chosen a translator, the next step is to prepare the document for translation.
Save each section or chapter in a separate file. Microsoft Word documents are most likely to suit a translator, but many translators can open different types of files (eg PowerPoint or Portable Document Files (PDF)). Check with your translator to make sure the files can be easily opened on the translator’s computer. You can also archive your document files using a program such as WinZip to shrink them into one file with a ZIP extension. This file will be much smaller which saves time for transfer over the Internet. If you have a CD burner, you can send the document on CD.
Translators sometimes charge more for documents not provided in electronic format as they are more difficult to work with. If you are sending a hard copy of your document, never send the original. Expect to pay more for technical translations than general translations just as you would pay more to see a specialist than to see your GP. The translator may ask for partial payment in advance or credit card details.
Send a written order with your document confirming the terms you have agreed on with the translator such as price, delivery date, corrections, end format (eg Word document/desktop publishing), payment terms etc.
Once the translator has received the document be prepared to provide assistance with any terminology specific to your field. Even specialised translators will not have the same detailed knowledge of automotive engineering as someone who works in the field every day. Be prepared to explain acronyms and any in-house jargon. Allow plenty of time for the translation to be completed, particularly if the document is for publication. Translation is a slow, methodical process as the document needs to be completely re-written.
When you receive the finished product check it carefully. If anything is unclear or incorrect ask your translator to make the necessary changes. Most translators will not charge extra for this service.
2.8 I've heard that computers can translate documents - what is the advantage in employing a human translator?
The advantage in employing a human translator is that it is usually much quicker and more efficient for anything but the most basic of jobs.
There are currently two types of computer translation – machine translation and computer assisted translation commonly known as CAT. Machine translation can be useful if you want to know the gist of a document. For example if you have a magazine article in a foreign language and you want to know what it is about, a machine translation will give you a quick idea. On the other hand if you want your marketing brochure or website translated into a foreign language avoid machine translation at all costs. You can try out machine translation for yourself at http://world.altavista.com
A CAT tool is software that has memory banks where translators can store frequently used phrases to avoid repetitive translation work. Examples of CAT tools are Trados and Déjà Vu. The quality of the CAT tool memory bank depends on the individual translator as all items in memory have been stored there by the translator rather than being supplied with the software. CAT tools also help a translator retain the same formatting as original documents.
2.9 How much will my translation or interpreting job cost?
There is no standard industry rate; language professionals set their own fees and conditions. Obtain several quotations from suitably qualified and experienced practitioners to get an idea of price range. Be mindful that you get what you pay for, so a low quote may not offer the best deal and price should be only one factor in evaluating who should undertake your job.
Translation
For translation, expect to pay either a flat fee for your job or a per word or per 100 word rate. Many translators charge a set rate for documents such as birth certificates or police records.
The per word rate usually ranges from $0.20 to $3.00+ (+GST if applicable) depending on the type of document to be translated, the language combination, the amount of work involved (eg extensive formatting or desktop publishing) the subject matter and the deadline. Expect to pay more for legal, medical and technical translations. Urgent jobs will usually attract an extra loading.
Interpreting
Interpreters charge per assignment (usually by the hour or half/full day). Minimum fees apply for both. You will normally be expected to pay any travel, meal and hotel expenses. The type of interpreting assignment, location, time of day, length of assignment and degree of specialisation/experience required will also dictate the fee.
Standard interpreting rates per hour vary from $50 - $100+
Standard interpreting rates per day vary from $250 – $500+
Cancellation fees may apply. For example if you book an interpreter for an assignment and then later have to cancel, depending on the amount of notice given, the interpreter may charge either the full fee or a percentage of the fee if more notice of cancellation is provided. This is to cover the loss of other work declined for this period.
2.10 How long will my translation job take?
Allow 2-5 working days turnaround for small jobs such as marriage and birth certificates. For other jobs discuss the timeline with your translator.
As a rough guide translators can translate 150-500 words per hour depending on the amount of formatting required, the complexity of the text (legal, medical and technical translations often require extensive research) and whether the original document is delivered in electronic format.
Good translators may be booked up days or even weeks in advance. Plan your job accordingly and try not to rush your translation project. Some companies spend weeks compiling a brochure or important report and then expect it to be rewritten (translated) into another language in a few days. This is not realistic.
2.11 How can I be sure the translator or interpreter I am employing has done a good job?
A good start is to employ an AUSIT member to ensure you are working with a qualified practitioner. Choose a person who has experience in your field and seek references and recommendations.
Interpreting checklist (pre assignment)
Give your interpreter as much information as you can about the job and the people for whom they will be interpreting.
Ensure the interpreter has provided you with information on the terms and conditions of the job (pay rate, length of assignment, meal and rest breaks, cancellation policy etc).
Interpreting checklist (post assignment)
Was the interpreter professionally presented and punctual?
Did they take notes or have dictionaries at hand?
Were they courteous and helpful?
Was their language clear and easy to understand?
Did the conversation proceed smoothly?
Signs of poor performance
One word answers being interpreted as lengthy explanations or vice versa.
The interpreter engaging in conversation that excludes you or other speakers
Translation checklist (pre assignment)
Ensure your document is free of typing and grammatical errors.
Spell out any acronyms or abbreviations.
Provide glossaries or previous translations if available
Provide the document in electronic format if possible.
Stipulate the format required for the completed work and ensure that the translator is familiar with and has access to the relevant software.
Allow sufficient time for the translator to complete the task (he/she can guide you as to the time required).
Be clear about the terms and conditions (pay rate, deadline, end format etc)
Translation checklist (post assignment)
Was the translation completed by the agreed deadline?
Is the document professionally presented? (layout, spelling, grammar etc)
Does it read naturally?
(If the translation is into a language you understand, read the document to make sure it flows well. If the translation is into a language you do not understand, peruse the finished document to ensure it is complete, that numbers and other words you understand are correct and that the layout is accurate. Have the final document checked by a translator who is a native speaker if you are unsure.)
Signs of poor performance
Poorly presented documents with spelling mistakes and poor layout.
Work being completed past the agreed deadline without prior consultation.
The translation does not sound natural.
Incorrect terminology has been used.
Translator has ignored instructions or charged a different amount from the one agreed upon.
If you are not happy with the work, discuss your concerns with the translator. They can often rectify the situation at no extra cost unless it is your fault for not giving correct instructions or guidelines.
Once you have found a reliable interpreter or translator, stick with them – they will save time and money as they understand your requirements. Changing practitioners means going back to square one.
2.12 What can I do if I am unhappy about the translation or interpreting service I have received?
The first thing to do is to discuss your concerns with the individual translator or interpreter as 90% of the time this resolves matters quickly.
If after doing this you are still unhappy with the service you have received you have the following options:
Translation
Ask another translator to check the work of the first translator to get a second opinion. If the second translator agrees that the work is of poor quality you have the option of having the document translated by someone else and not paying the first translator. This situation can largely be avoided by selecting a person carefully in the first place.
Interpreting
If you realise during an assignment that the interpreter is not able to carry out the job, you can terminate the assignment. This situation can usually be avoided by hiring the right person in the first place.
SECTION THREE – FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO BECOME A PROFESSIONAL TRANSLATOR OR INTERPRETER
3.1 What attributes do I need to become a translator?
You need to be able to read and understand documents in one language and render them accurately into another language respecting both the intention of the author and the spirit of the target language. Most translators have either a bilingual background and/or a degree or specialist qualification in a foreign language. Many have a Masters degree or other postgraduate qualification in translation. Translators usually translate only into their mother tongue.
Desirable Qualities
Thorough knowledge of source language
Excellent knowledge of target language
Good writing and drafting skills
Analytical ability
Research skills
Initiative and assertiveness
Thoroughness and accuracy
Adaptability
Computer literacy
Organisational skills
3.2 What attributes do I need to become an interpreter?
You need to be a competent bilingual and able to accurately convey information spoken or signed in one language into another language and vice versa presenting the speaker’s ideas and convictions with the same intensity and shades of meaning. Most interpreters have either a bilingual background and/or a degree or specialist qualification in a foreign language.
Desirable Qualities
Thorough knowledge of both languages
Excellent communication skills
Specialist knowledge (eg for medical/legal/business interpreting)
Intuition and flexibility
Diplomacy
Assertiveness
Awareness of personal limitations
Research skills
Note taking skills
3.3 How long will it take to qualify and how much will it cost?
This depends on your competence in the two languages. If you are a competent bilingual, then the best way to become an interpreter or translator is to apply for a Bachelor of Arts (Interpreting and Translation), (3 years full time) or a Bachelor of Arts in any discipline (3 years full time) followed by a Graduate Diploma or Master of Arts in Interpreting and Translation in a NAATI approved course (1 year full time). (NAATI stands for the National Accreditation Authority for Translators & Interpreters)
The NAATI website has a comprehensive list of accredited courses on their website www.naati.com.au. You can also search the Internet for suitable courses. If you do not want to attend university, you can do an Advanced Diploma in Interpreting or Translation at a TAFE college. If your language is not offered by any of these educational institutions, then you can enrol in the generic theoretical units as a miscellaneous student and take other exam preparation workshops to prepare to sit for a NAATI accreditation test as an independent candidate.
If you apply as an independent candidate you will need a bachelor's degree in any discipline before you are allowed to sit for the professional interpreter and translator NAATI tests. The overall cost will depend on which option you select. As a guide, a BA in Interpreting and Translation at the University of Western Sydney costs $3,847 per year for a 3-year course for Australian students and $15,000 per year for international students (figures quoted for 2005).
3.4 I am a Year 10 student. What can you tell me about translation and interpreting as a career?
Translation
Translation is one of the fastest growing fields in the world. With the advent of the Internet and the global economy countries are doing more business with each other than every before. Translators can work for agencies, on a freelance basis or with large companies or government agencies needing regular language work. There is also a growing need for ‘localisation’ – the ability to translate and modify websites, documents, course materials etc for use in a particular country or culture. The amount of work available depends on your particular language combination and technical skill. The major European languages are in high demand as are Chinese and Japanese.
Some of the best-known sites for translators are ProZ www.proz.com and Aquarius www.aquarius.net where you can see the types of translation work and main language combinations on a worldwide scale. Basic membership on these sites is usually free, but if you pay an annual fee you receive access to additional services, e.g. information on average rates for different language combinations, preferential bidding for jobs and ability to team up with other site members.
Translators who have knowledge of another discipline such as law, engineering, medicine or science have a head start as they can specialise in this field.
With the advent of the Internet, Australian translators no longer need to work solely in the local market. Documents can be sent and received from anywhere in the world via email. In fact being in a different time zone can be an advantage as Australian translators can work on projects while other translators sleep.
For further information see the AUSIT website or look up the websites of universities and TAFEs providing courses in interpreting and translation. There are diplomas, advanced diplomas, bachelor, masters and postgraduate degrees to choose from. The NAATI website has a list of accredited courses www.naati.com.au. You could also contact those already working as professional translators in your language combination.
Interpreting
Qualified interpreters can find employment as contractors to interpreting service providers or in public and private sector organisations such as hospitals, courts, businesses, government departments etc or as independent practitioners. Some languages are more in demand than others so make sure you research work opportunities in your language combination before making a decision.
For further information see the AUSIT website or look up the websites of universities providing courses in interpreting and translation. There are diplomas, advanced diplomas, bachelor, masters and postgraduate degrees to choose from. The NAATI website has a list of accredited courses. www.naati.com.au. You could also contact those already working as professional interpreters in your language combination.
3.5 Does AUSIT offer courses in translation and interpreting or have a list of recommended courses in translation and interpreting? If not, how can I find a suitable course?
AUSIT does not offer courses in translation and interpreting and does not endorse any specific course. Try contacting the Australian accreditation authority NAATI www.naati.com.au. They have a list of institutions whose qualifications in translation and interpreting are approved for NAATI accreditation. http://www.naati.com.au/documents/fact_sheets/naati_approved_courses.pdf. You can also contact individual universities and TAFE colleges.
3.6 Can I work as a translator or interpreter without having a degree or specialised language qualification?
Most Australian government and private agencies ask for evidence of language qualifications, particularly NAATI accreditation at Professional Level. NAATI is the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters. Most translators in Australia are either accredited by NAATI or have translation qualifications from an overseas organisation. NAATI has a list of international institutions whose qualifications in translation and interpreting are acceptable in Australia.
Some translators and interpreters have a background in a specialist subject such as law, medicine or engineering and speak or understand two languages.
At present there is no legal requirement to have a degree or specialised language qualification to become a translator or interpreter. However most of us would not trust a lawyer or doctor without qualifications so ask yourself why would it be any different in the specialised field of language?
3.7 What office/other equipment will I need if I want to work as a freelance translator or interpreter?
Translators
Essential
Landline and/or mobile phone with answering machine
Specialist dictionaries and reference books
Computer, Printer, Fax, Scanner, Photocopier
Good filing & accounts system
Internet access
Email account
Antivirus and back up system
Optional
Voice recognition software
Translation memory software (eg Trados, WordFast)
CD burner
Accounting package
Interpreters
Essential
Landline and mobile phone with answering machine
Car
Good filing & accounts system
Notebook
Reference material for specialist subjects
Optional (but desirable)
Email account
Internet access
3.8 What computer software and hardware will I need to work as a freelance translator?
Desktop or notebook computer with modern operating system (eg Windows XP) plus a good quality printer, scanner, fax and photocopier. There are many excellent all-in-one machines on the market that print, fax, photocopy and scan documents.
Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or one of the industry standard software packages
Acrobat Reader (for portable document files)
File unzipper (eg WinZip)
A reliable anti-virus and pest patrol system
A reliable back up system
Electronic dictionaries
Fast Internet connection and email account
Other useful equipment/software
CD Burner
Voice recognition software
QuarkXPress
Adobe PageMaker
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
Microsoft Publisher
CAT tools with translation memory (eg Trados, WordFast)
3.9 Where can I find employment as a translator and/or interpreter?
In the current Australian market there are almost no full-time jobs as employees in translation and interpreting. Almost all work is on contract or a part-time basis.
You can approach translation agencies with your CV and sign up as a contractor. With the Internet and email, it is now possible to sign up with agencies from all over the world. As Australia is in a different time zone, many European and North American agencies will allocate emergency jobs to Australian translators. The websites http://www.translatortips.com and http://www.tipsfortranslators are a mine of useful information on all aspects of setting up in business as a freelance translator.
You can approach companies, consulates and embassies directly and offer your services. You can also look for jobs on the Internet. An entry in the AUSIT group advertisement under “Translators” in the Yellow Pages of most capital cities can be a cost-effective promotion.
To find work as an interpreter, you can approach government and private agencies. You can also advertise your services in the Yellow Pages and via consulates and embassies.
If you live in an area where there is a large concentration of people speaking your language, you can advertise through word of mouth or in shops, community centres and the local paper.
Another option for both translators and interpreters is to advertise in the AUSIT online membership directory. You can opt for a link to your email address and website and list details of your experience in your directory profile. NAATI also has a practitioner’s directory for accredited translators and interpreters.
3.10 Which areas of the translation/interpreting market are growing and which are shrinking?
Translation
The world is literally swimming in translation work. It is one of the major growth areas particularly since the advent of the Internet, globalisation and an increase in international business.
There is a major demand for translators in specialised areas such as law, finance, medicine and engineering. There is also a demand for those able to work in html and localisation of websites. Translators with CAT (Computer Assisted Translation) tools such as Trados are increasingly being preferred for large and complicated projects where translators work in teams and consistency is vital.
Some languages are obviously more in demand than others. You can check the ProZ website www.proz.com to see which language combinations are most popular.
In Australia, translation work tends to come mostly from agencies or direct clients such as private corporations and consulates. There is a reasonable amount of work translating documents such as driving licences, birth and marriage certificates for individuals. Other sources of work are legal firms needing translations of patents and contracts and businesses with an international presence. Translators are now expected to be able to deal with documents in electronic form and handwritten translations are becoming a thing of the past.
You will find your own special niche and build your reputation through word of mouth, marketing and networking plus persistence and determination.
Interpreting
The interpreting market in Australia is generally community-based and opportunities tend to be limited to those languages where there are a high number of migrants unable to speak English. Twenty years ago there was a high demand for languages such as Greek and Italian, but demand for interpreting in these languages is falling. Conversely, there is increased demand for languages such as Vietnamese and Arabic as more people from these backgrounds move to Australia.
There are also interpreting opportunities at international sporting events and trade fairs and for business delegations visiting Australia. Some countries are more likely to send staff to Australia on business than others, so it is up to the individual interpreter to analyse the opportunities in their own language field and market their skills accordingly.
3.11 How long does it take to become established as a translator and/or interpreter?
On average, two-three years, assuming you have the required bilingual and cultural skills to begin with. In any freelance profession, marketing is a necessary skill and the better you master this side of the business, the more quickly you will become successful.
3.12 What can I do to keep my skills up to date or upgrade them?
AUSIT runs professional development workshops and seminars tailored to suit translators and interpreters. Check the AUSIT website for details or become an AUSIT member and receive details via the AUSIT e-bulletin.
You can also read newspapers and books, listen to radio and watch TV to maintain your language skills. Many translators and interpreters take trips to the country in which their language is spoken to maintain fluency and keep up to date with changing language styles. These trips can be partially tax deductible, so check with your accountant or tax advisor. Translators need to invest in up-to-date dictionaries (hardback or electronic) and may wish to investigate the use of Computer Assisted Translation (CAT) tools such as Déjà Vu or Trados. Some of the translation sites have sections comparing different CAT tools.
CAT tools with translation memories created by the translator are extremely useful on projects where the source material contains a lot of repetition and when follow-up releases are expected. In such cases, the tools ensure consistency of terminology and style. The use of translation memory tools enables the efficient recycling of translations, which results in a considerable reduction in the linguistic effort required, leading to reduced effort and cost for subsequent versions.
An important side-effect is that, because these tools offer the translator only one sentence at a time, there is no chance of accidentally translating a line twice, or missing it out completely.
3.13 How much should I charge for my services?
This depends on where you live, what sort of translation or interpreting work you do, what language you specialise in, your level of experience and the amount of competition in your field. It also depends on whether you are working for an agency or directly for a client. Don’t be afraid to phone up agencies and ask them what they pay contractors or ask colleagues in the translation or interpreting business what they charge. AUSIT has conducted surveys on rates of pay in Australia and members frequently share information about interpreting and translating rates on the e-bulletin.
As a guide, the per word rate for translation ranges from $0.20 to $3.00+(+GST if applicable), depending on the type of work undertaken. Translations are generally priced per word or per 100 or per 1000 words of the target language. Perform a computer word count on the translated document and multiply by the rate for your language combination. Inform your client about any urgency surcharges before you start the job (e.g. +25% for 24-hour turnaround). A minimum charge is usually applied to documents of less than 2-300 words. You may decide to charge extra for hard copies such as printed documents, faxed documents, or PDF documents, depending on the extra time required. If the document requires extensive re-formatting or conversion to a web page, you can charge extra for his service.
Proofreading, desktop publishing, HTML encoding and modification of graphics are usually billed by the hour.
Freelance interpreters charge $45-$100+ per hour or $250-700+ per day. The amount varies depending on market forces and the nature of the job. For jobs of short duration, the minimum fee will normally include an additional component of $40-$60 for travel time. Be sure to negotiate meal breaks and rests.
You may decide to charge a minimum booking fee plus set hourly rate to cover administration and travel costs.
Rates paid to freelance translators and interpreters by government services and private agencies are tabled in the appendices to the report “Interpreter Remuneration 1993 –2003” on the AUSIT website.
The website also has a survey of fees charged by interpreters and translators in 1998 (before GST).
These reports are both available to AUSIT members.
3.14 How many words per day can an average translator handle?
Many agencies work on the basis that a translator can translate 2000 words per day. In practice this number varies enormously.
Texts with specialised vocabulary, texts that require extensive research or formatting and texts that are difficult to read cannot easily be fitted into the ‘words per day’ schedule. Some translators working with familiar subject material and translation tools can manage as much as 5000 words per day while another translator faced with a challenging project such as a magazine advertisement for nationwide publication may only manage 200 words. Each job needs to be assessed independently. Make sure you are not rushed.
3.15 How many hours do interpreters work at a time?
Sometimes an assignment can be for just a few minutes (e.g. a telephone conversation). In other situations the interpreter is hired for the whole day or even several weeks (e.g. in court interpreting or for a business meeting or conference). It is up to the interpreter to negotiate regular breaks and work within their physical and mental limitations.
3.16 How long is an average interpreting assignment?
Most interpreting assignments are for 1.5 - 2 hours. The actual amount of interpreting required may be much less than this.
3.17 What will give me a cutting edge as a translator or interpreter?
Interpreters and translators who specialise in a particular discipline (eg mechanical engineering translation or legal interpreting) can make a name for themselves in their specialist field.
Those who are available, punctual, reliable and easy to deal will give themselves a competitive advantage.
Having up to date tools and equipment is important.
Those who spend time on creating a professional impression and marketing themselves to potential clients will reap the rewards.
For more ideas on selling your services as a translator, consult the websites http://www.translatortips.com and http://www.tipsfortranslators.com
3.18 Will I need to specialise as a translator and/or interpreter?
It is not necessary to specialise as a translator or interpreter, but those who do can usually command higher fees.
3.19 How much money do translators and interpreters make annually?
Those with a popular language combination combined with effective marketing and professional delivery tend to earn more.
The 1996 census data showed that in Australia 95% of translators and interpreters earned between $6000 and $80,000 p.a. with a large majority of translators (77%) earning between $10,000 and $42,000 and a large majority of interpreters (73%) earning between $10,000 and $37,000. Less than 1% of interpreters and translators earned more than $80,000 per year.
In the 2001 census, 89% of interpreters and 82% of translators earned between $8,300 and $78,000 p.a. The large majority interpreters (84%) and translators (71%) earned between $8,300 and $52,000. 1% of interpreters and 5% of translators earned more than $78,000 per year while 55% of interpreters and 43% of translators earned less than $26,000 per year.
The AUSIT website has a survey of fees charged by interpreters and translators in 1998 (before GST).
Rates paid to freelance translators and interpreters by government services and private agencies are tabled in the appendices to the report “Interpreter Remuneration 1993 –2003” on the AUSIT website.
These reports are available to AUSIT members.
3.20 Do I need to take out professional indemnity insurance to work as a translator or interpreter?
It is not a pre-requisite to have professional indemnity insurance as a translator or interpreter, but some agencies require it and if you work in areas where you could potentially be sued, it is advisable. If, for example, you are translating instructions on how to assemble and operate a chain saw or are the chief interpreter in a rape case, you need to be covered in case of error or misunderstanding.
Some agencies ask translators and interpreters to contribute to the cost of professional indemnity insurance but the onus usually falls on the practitioner.
AUSIT has a range of professional indemnity insurance schemes for members. Details are available in the member’s section of the website.
SECTION FOUR – FOR THOSE ALREADY WORKING AS PROFESSIONAL TRANSLATORS & INTERPRETERS BUT WHO ARE NOT AUSIT MEMBERS
4.1 Why should I join AUSIT? What can it offer me?
AUSIT is often the first port of call for those seeking the services of a translator or interpreter.
Benefits of membership include:
* listing in the on-line national directory for translators and interpreters with the option of a link to a website and email address
* referral service
* information on training
* continuing professional development
* a voice in the world for translators and interpreters
* professional status
* networking opportunities
* a quarterly newsletter
* professional indemnity insurance at group (reduced) rates for members
* an email network for instant and ongoing exchange of information and ideas
For further information click here or on the Membership Benefits button on the AUSIT home page.
4.2. What do I have to do to join AUSIT and how much does it cost?
For information about joining AUSIT call 1800 284 181 from anywhere in Australia or +61 8 9923 2183 from outside Australia.
Alternatively click on the following link: AUSIT membership to print out a membership application form.
Cost of Membership - 2007
Senior Practitioner - $220 per annum
Member – $176 per annum
Associate Subscriber - $99 per annum
Joining Fee $20
N.B. Only qualified translators and interpreters are eligible for the Member and Senior Practitioner categories of membership.
4.3 Can I join AUSIT if I live overseas or am not an Australian citizen?
Yes AUSIT welcomes membership applications from those living outside Australia and citizens of other countries.
4.4 I qualified as a translator or interpreter in a country outside Australia. Are my overseas qualifications recognised here? If not what do I need to do to practice within Australia?
The Australian accreditation authority NAATI has a list of international institutions whose qualifications in T&I are acceptable for accreditation in Australia, so you should contact NAATI in the first instance. Should your overseas qualifications not be acceptable, you have two options for practising in Australia. You can apply for jobs on the basis of the qualifications you hold, which may or may not be accepted by the people offering the work (for most government agencies and many private agencies NAATI professional-level accreditation is a basic requirement). Alternatively you can apply to sit for a NAATI accreditation exam. If necessary, you could enrol for one of the degree or postgraduate diploma courses approved by NAATI, which provide automatic accreditation to candidates achieving a set pass mark in their final exam.
4.5 I am a professional interpreter/translator in my own country. I want to migrate to Australia. Will I find a market in Australia?
This depends on your language combination and experience. You can look up the practitioners in your language on the AUSIT database by clicking on the “Find an Interpreter” or “Find a Translator button” on the left hand side of the home page.
Translators in Australia have enjoyed increased opportunities since the advent of the Internet and email.
Interpreting work tends to be in the community sector (health and welfare) or in the legal sector with most interpreters contracting to agencies.
There is no real market for conference interpreting in Australia.
4.6 I have just arrived from overseas and have no contacts here. How can I be sponsored to join AUSIT?
Applicants who have difficulty finding a sponsor in Australia are still encouraged to submit an application. The AUSIT National Office refers all applications to local branches before a decision is made. Include as much supporting material as you can with your application. (eg evidence of membership of other interpreting/translation organisations; qualifications; letters of reference etc)
4.7 I have just arrived from overseas – how can I find out about the business side of setting up as a translator or interpreter? (e.g. ABN (Australian Business Number); GST (Goods & Services Tax); market practices; rates; demand for my language etc).
Joining AUSIT is a good start. You can download an application form on the following link: AUSIT membership.
The Australian Government provides lots of free information for those setting up in business. See the following websites.
Australian Government http://www.fed.gov.au/
Australian Taxation Office http://www.ato.gov.au/
4.8 Do I need to take out professional indemnity insurance to work as a translator or interpreter in Australia?
It is not a pre-requisite to have professional indemnity insurance as a translator or interpreter, though some agencies require it. f you work in areas where you could potentially be sued, it is advisable. If, for example, you are translating instructions on how to assemble and operate a chain saw or are the chief interpreter in a rape case, you need to be covered in case of error or misunderstanding.
Some agencies ask translators and interpreters to contribute to the cost of professional indemnity insurance but the onus usually falls on the practitioner.
4.9 How can I be listed in AUSIT’s directory of Translators and Interpreters?
Professional and Associate members of AUSIT are eligible to have their details listed in the on-line directory of Translators and Interpreters. For a small additional cost you may add information about your background and experience plus a link to an email address or website.
4.10 What events does AUSIT offer? How can I find out about them?
Details of events organised by AUSIT are posted regularly on the Members Section of the website and sent to members via email or newsletter for those without access to a computer.
National conferences, local branch meetings, professional development workshops and networking sessions are just some of the events offered over the past year. AUSIT operates active branches in each State and Territory. Call 1800 284 181 for local contact details and further information.
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