Why AUSIT Matters: Ethical Language Services in Australia

Have you ever needed a translator or interpreter in Australia? If so, you might have come across AUSIT – but what exactly is it, and why does it matter when choosing the right language service provider?

What is AUSIT?

The Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators (AUSIT) is the professional association for translators and interpreters in Australia.

AUSIT stands for ethical, competent and informed practice. It promotes this through its Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct, organising quality professional development, endorsing research and supporting adequate remuneration and working conditions for members.

The Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators (AUSIT) is the professional association for translators and interpreters in Australia.

For both clients and practitioners, AUSIT serves as a key point of reference, ensuring high-quality language services across a wide range of sectors, including legal, medical, community, and government settings.

Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct

AUSIT's Code of Ethics is one of its most significant contributions to the profession. It outlines the core values and principles that guide every decision made by translators and interpreters. The accompanying Code of Conduct specifies how these principles are applied in practice.

Ethical interpreting and translating requires judgement and is all about balanced decision-making in context. It's not just about translating words—it’s about understanding the bigger picture. Practitioners who follow the Code of Ethics are held accountable, ensuring they consistently act in line with the standards of conduct and decorum through AUSIT’s compliance processes.

At the heart of the AUSIT Code of Ethics are these principles:

1. Accuracy

Translators and interpreters use their best professional judgement to remain faithful at all times to the meaning of texts and messages, without omissions or distortions.

2. Confidentiality

Professionals adhere to strict confidentiality rules, never disclosing information acquired in the course of their work, unless required by law.

3. Impartiality

Language professionals remain unbiased in all professional dealings and avoid situations that could result in conflicts of interest.

4. Clarity of Role Boundaries

A translator or interpreter’s role is solely to facilitate communication through message transfer, not to offer advocacy, guidance or advice. They will clarify their role if misunderstandings arise.

5. Competence

Practitioners only undertake work they are competent, qualified and trained to perform.

Why Does This Matter?

For clients, choosing a translator or interpreter who follows the AUSIT Code of Ethics means receiving high-quality, reliable, and ethical language services.

For professionals, AUSIT membership demonstrates a commitment to industry best practices and continuous professional development.

At the end of the day, these ethical standards ensure that language professionals provide a service that is not only technically accurate but also respects the cultural and professional responsibilities of the field.

Still with me? Gracias for reading!

I'm Inés, a NAATI-certified Spanish translator and interpreter based in South Australia. I provide professional and culturally sensitive services, making sure to uphold the AUSIT Code of Ethics in every project I take on.

Whether you need certified translations for documents related to visa or job applications, or a credentialed interpreter for an appointment, I’d love to help.

Feel free to get in touch here or follow me on Instagram for updates and language tips!