Find out how to register and use the free interpreting services for mental health service providers commissioned by PHNs.
From 1 February 2023 all mental health services commissioned by Primary Health Networks (PHNs) may apply to access free interpreting services funded by the Department of Health and Aged Care through the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).
The Australian Government is investing $7.8 million over two years (2022-23 to 2023-24) to ensure interpreting services for mental health service providers commissioned by PHNs are available. Language services are designed to ensure that people with limited or no English language proficiency can access the services and programs they need, removing a significant barrier faced by Australians from multicultural backgrounds when accessing mental health support.
How to register for TIS National
To access TIS services, mental health service providers register for a client code via the TIS National website.
TIS Online
You’ll be asked to complete an online registration form.
For the first four questions of the registration form, answer as follows:
- Category — choose ‘Commonwealth Government Agency’
- Sub-category — choose ‘Other Commonwealth Government agency’
- Name of organisation or agency — enter the name of your organisation/service
- Section name — enter ‘PHN-Funded Mental Health Program’
TIS National will email you the unique client code once your application is complete. You will also receive a welcome email containing your account details and information on how to use the services.
Services who provide mental health services through different government programs, you need to register a separate client code for each one.
How to access TIS National
TIS National provides access to the following interpreting services:
Immediate phone interpreting (131 450)
ATIS automated voice-prompted immediate phone interpreting
Once you have a client code, you can book an immediate phone interpreter by calling TIS National on 131 450 or make a booking through your TIS Online account (onsite, pre-book phone interpreting and video interpreting can only be booked via TIS Online). You should use phone interpreting services unless there’s a genuine need for an on-site interpreter. Providers will need to quote their unique client code when booking an interpreter.
A guide to TIS National services ebrochure
Download TIS’s guide for different service types and help with deciding the most suitable format for your client. Interpreters are available in more than 160 languages.
TIS National promotional materials catalogue
For more information visit the Department of Health and Aged Care website
Find out more
Souther Western Sydney PHN mental health services providers.