There are two interpreter services that Council can use:
ATIS (Automated Translating and Interpreting Services) – Use if the client is with you and you only need to connect with an interpreter.
or
TIS National (Translating and Interpreting Services) - Use if the client is not with you and you need an operator to call the client.
These are to be used by staff, unless your program/department is funded to use a specific interpreting service.
If the client is WITH YOU, telephone ATIS on 1800 131 450
- Your call will be answered by the TIS National Automated service.
- Follow the prompts below:
Step 1: When prompted, say which language you need an interpreter for. An automated voice will repeat the language back. Confirm if the language is correct by saying 'yes' or 'no'.
Step 2: You will be asked to choose the gender of your interpreter by pressing:
- 1 to select either gender
- 2 to select a female interpreter
- 3 to select a male interpreter
Step 3: When prompted, enter the ATIS Voice account number followed by the # sign then enter the ATIS Voice access number, followed by the # sign.
- ATIS Voice Account 100855#
- ATIS Voice Access Number 8766#
Step 4: You will be given a job number. Write this down as a record of your conversation.
- If ATIS is unable to allocate an interpreter for your request, your call will be re-directed to a TIS National operator.
Council’s TIS National code is: C087097.
If the client is NOT with you and you need an operator to telephone the client, phone TIS National on 13 14 50
- When you telephone 13 14 50 your call will be answered by the TIS National Automated Service
- Follow the prompts below:
Step 1: When prompted, say which language you need an interpreter for. An automated voice will repeat the language back. Confirm if the language is correct by saying 'yes' or 'no'.
Step 2: Wait on the phone for an operator. You will be asked for your details and the details of the client to be called (the client is City of Greater Dandenong).
Step 3: When asked, give the TIS National Code C087097.
Step 4: The operator will telephone an interpreter, then the client will connect them into the call.
Step 5: You will be given a job number for your records.
Please note that if a client who cannot speak English contacts TIS National they can say the language required or stay silent. If the client remains silent the call will not be disconnected and will be transferred to the first available operator. It is very important that the client remains on the line.
How to make a pre-booked telephone and on-site interpreter booking
All pre-booked phone interpreters need to be submitted online using the interpreter booking form.
Council Interpreter Service codes
You will need to quote these codes when contacting the Interpreter Services:
- TIS National: C087097
- ATIS Voice: account 100855 / ATIS Voice: access code 8766
- VITS: 14833
We also use VITS (Victorian Interpreting and Translating Services) when TIS can't be accessed. VITS can be accessed on: www.languageloop.com.au
Further Assistance
For further assistance and information on using the Interpreter Services contact Community Development Community.Advocacy@cgd.vic.gov.au
