- Formerly known as the Kimberley Interpreting Service its new name reflects the statewide service provided
- Launch event marks collaboration with Kimberley hospitals to trial interpreting service
- Premier joined by Chief Justice Wayne Martin and Member for Kimberley Josie Farrer MLA at Kununurra launch
Premier Mark McGowan launched the new Aboriginal Interpreting WA (AIWA) service in Kununurra, today, and welcomed a six-month trial for increased interpreting services at some Kimberley Hospitals.
In collaboration with WA Country Health Service, the trial enables AIWA interpreters to be on standby Monday to Friday at Kimberley hospitals to support Aboriginal speaking patients and their families in need of medical attention.
Formerly known as the Kimberley Interpreting Service, the new name reflects the service AIWA and its interpreters provide across Western Australia.
The State Government previously committed to $200,000 in funding for the interpreting service to increase its capacity to help Aboriginal people access reliable interpreting services, particularly in the Kimberley region where the need is very high.
Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:
"Western Australia has a diverse range of Aboriginal languages and cultures. In fact, Aboriginal Interpreting WA provides an interpreting service in more than 40 Aboriginal languages which is essential given many Aboriginal people in remote areas speak English as their second, third or even fourth language.
"AIWA accredited interpreters continue to provide essential support to Aboriginal people across WA from Kununurra to the Pilbara, Goldfields, through to the western desert and the South West region through the leadership of the AIWA Board of Directors and Chairpersons and the important work its staff delivers.
"I congratulate the AIWA in expanding its service and working with the WA Country Health Service on a six-month pilot program which enables Aboriginal interpreters to be on standby to support Aboriginal people and their families in hospitals across the Kimberley.
"The program will see hospitals across Broome, Derby, Fitzroy, Halls Creek and Kununurra engage with AIWA interpreters to ensure Aboriginal speaking individuals feel heard and understood.
"We know that over 70 per cent of patients in Kimberley hospitals are Aboriginal, and this initiative ensures they can speak their first language and feel safe and respected in a health care setting.
"I'd also like to recognise the instrumental work the Member for Kimberley Josie Farrer MLA has delivered to support AIWA at the start of its service, as a long standing senior interpreter herself."
Premier's office: 6552 5000
