Provision of language services, 1985: survey of language service providers

This study forms part of the Review of the Provision of Language Services in Australia, and is a companion to the survey of non-English speakers (see SSDA Study No. 591) and the survey of community service providers (see SSDA Study No. 593). Its main aims were: to assess the range and extent of language services available, the way in which they are developed and publicised, and the effects of such publicity; to investigate the areas of specialisation covered by these services and the particular needs prompting such specialisation; to assess location and staffing of services; and to understand the way in which language service providers assess community needs and any problems involved in the successful response to these needs. Topics covered include: services provided by the organisation; breakdown of material translated by type and amount, for translation both from English to other languages, and from other languages into English; the range of languages able to be supplied; types of clients serviced; limitations on translation services offered; sources of operating funds and charges made; selection of translators and interpreters; advertising of services; breakdown of staff numbers, and level of accreditation; staff training; opinions on the availability of language services for client groups; and opinions on the professional opportunities for translators and interpreters.