AAHIT (Victorian branch)

The Victorian branch of the Australian Association of Hospital Interpreters and Translators (AAHIT) was formed in Melbourne in November 1989 and officially launched in July 1990 at The Alfred Hospital. At the AGM held on 17 December 2008, the name of the Association was amended to Australian Association of Health Interpreters and Translators to reflect the changing needs of the Health Industry.

Our Aims

• To provide professional support to members.
• To provide regular in-service training on medical and therapeutic advancements, techniques, and issues of specific relevance to the profession.
• To educate health professionals about cultural issues relevant to the treatment of patients of culturally and linguistically diverse speaking backgrounds and hearing impaired patients.
• To educate health professionals in how to work effectively with interpreteres.
• To enhance the professional image of interpreters and translators in the hospital setting.

Our Objectives

• To provide the highest standard of interpreting and translating services for patients and health professionals.
• To work towards the accreditation and establishment of interpreting services as separate entities within the hospital structure. Each service to be headed by a Manager or Chief Interpreter responsible for directing and coordinating the service.
• To provide opportunities for interpreters and translators to meet and share professional experiences and knowledge.
• To strive to improve the current working conditions of members.
• To establish professional standards and qualifications for the future employment of interpreters within hospitals and other health related areas.

Languages