The Video Remote Interpreting service, also known as VRI, enables communication between hearing people and people who are Deaf and use Australian sign language, or Auslan as their primary language
Video remote interpreting involves the interpreter listening to spoken information and interpreting this into Auslan. In the same way, they also interpret Auslan into spoken English for a hearing person, using video conferencing technology and the internet.
A variety of meetings can be supported using video remote interpreting. The most common is where the interpreter is located in Melbourne, usually at the Victorian Deaf Society (Vicdeaf) office where video conferencing equipment is available. This equipment then links to the signing Deaf person and their service provider/organisational representative, at the second location, via the internet.
Who provides this service?
Auslan language services are provided by the Victorian Interpreting and Translating Service (VITS) in partnership with Auslan Connections, a joint venture of Victorian Deaf Society (Vicdeaf) and Deaf Services Queensland.
Organisations funded by us, and our staff can access video remote interpreting via VITS. This is organised through our language services credit line.
Organisations not funded by us can access video remote interpreting by contacting Auslan Connections, directly.
Benefits of using video remote interpreting
- It provides access to professional interpreting services and enabling communication between people who are Deaf and use Auslan as their primary language, and hearing people
- Due to improved technology supports, video remote interpreting is now an alternative to on-site Auslan interpreting
- It is a convenient way for people in regional or remote areas to access interpreting services when on-site interpreting is not an option
- Reduces cost and travel time for Auslan interpreters
- Uses a safe and secure internet connection
- It is compatible with all major video conferencing systems and connects to computers and portable devices (tablets).
About Auslan interpreters
Auslan interpreters are accredited by the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI). They are required to abide by the Australian Sign Language Interpreters’ Association (ASLIA) code of ethics and guidelines for professional conduct.
You can download the Code of ethics and guidelines for professional conduct from the ASLIA Victoria website. The association also provides a directory of Auslan interpreters.
Further information is available on the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters website.