Translation and Interpreting education turns 50

Translation and Interpreting education turns 50

2025 is the 50th anniversary of translation and interpretation education in Australia, a milestone that marks a period of significant change within the country and its culture.

An RMIT-hosted symposium dedicated to the anniversary and the people who have committed their life’s work to the discipline was held at the State Library of Victoria.

Speaking at the event, Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Alec Cameron said the anniversary comes at a time when it has never been more important to understand each other.

“With over 300 international languages spoken and a significant proportion of our population coming from non-English-speaking backgrounds, translating and interpreting services ensure effective communication across diverse communities,” Cameron said.    

The symposium gathered members from the discipline along with representatives from the Basque Government Official Translation Service and national key stakeholders such as Language Loop, National Accreditation Authority for Translators (NAATI), Multicultural New South Wales, Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) National and the Department of Home Affairs.

04 April 2025

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Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Alec Cameron speaking at lectern. Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Alec Cameron.

RMIT was one of the first institutions to offer language programs through what was once the School of Communication and Social Studies (SOCASS), making RMIT's offering one of the longest running Translation and Interpretation (T&I) programs in the country. 

Supporting the relationship between migration and multiculturalism through language connects RMIT to a pivotal time in Australia’s multicultural history. 

Throughout the 1970s, language accessibility and services were required to support new Australians immigrating from the Middle East, Vietnam, and South America who were escaping global conflict.

Since then, language services have been needed for public services such as law courts, hospitals, schools, and community centres, providing essential communication capability to all Australians.

Group photo of symposium contributors on stage. Symposium contributors.

Looking to the future

Nancy Sethasridumrong, a NAATI certified Thai language interpreter/translator and College of Vocational Education teacher at RMIT said she was looking forward to the future but acknowledged there were still areas for development within T&I. 

“We listen to people who are facing difficulties and are unable to express their needs,” she said.

“Over time, we see these same individuals overcoming their struggles and emerging stronger.”  

She emphasised the importance of a human touch in the industry, particularly when working through intense cases, however welcomed the changes technology could bring, including use of AI. 

“AI has been invaluable in overcoming translation challenges, provided you know how to use it effectively,” she said.

Misconceptions, insufficient pay and a lack of perceived value for these professions have made it difficult for professionals like Sethasridumrong to establish permanency in their careers.

“To be certified, you need to pass a rigorous test and continually update your skills and knowledge. It's not just about knowing the languages; it's also about always being alert, solving problems on the spot, having a good memory and note-taking skills, and possessing broad knowledge in various fields.” 

Interpreters and translators often work under ‘gig’ circumstances, sourcing their work through agencies, however there is a push for permanent working conditions with fairer pay for this skilled workforce. 

RMIT’s connection to T&I was established back in 1975, when it offered the first language course in what is now the University’s College of Vocational Education (CoVE).  

Since 2008, RMIT has been the only dual sector institution in Australia and pioneered the Master of Translating and Interpreting which has revolutionised the discipline with more than 1,500 graduates.

Today RMIT supports T&I through offering 39 languages (including AUSLAN) up to post-graduate level.

 

Story: Jas McAuley

04 April 2025

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