New translation service at Morwell
Victoria Media Release
Monday, 23 August 2010
Residents with a Sudanese background in the Gippsland region are set to benefit from a new translation service at Morwell Centrelink CSC.
Morwell-based Centrelink Multicultural Services Officer, Noel Murray, said translator Gatdet Gach will be at Morwell CSC each Tuesday and Thursday between 1 and 5 pm.
"Gatdet will be available to assist customers who prefer to speak Sudanese Arabic or Nuer languages," Noel said.
"There will be a focus on ensuring customers understand Centrelink’s payments and services – which can be difficult if English is not your preferred language.
"Face-to-face contact with someone who can speak the language really goes a long way to making sure these customers receive their full entitlement, and that they understand their obligations, such as letting Centrelink know if their personal circumstances change.
"We want to get things right the first time round, and really minimise the risk of overpayments."
Noel said the service was introduced at Morwell CSC as a result of changing demographics, which have seen an increased number of people of Sudanese background settling in the Gippsland region.
"Previously, if an interpreter was required we accessed an over-the-phone translation service," Noel said.
"With the increase in the number of customers with a Sudanese background, we realised that there would be great benefit to having an on-site interpreter available.
"It’s about adapting our business to meet the ever-changing needs of our customers."
Customers who wish to conduct their business with Centrelink with the assistance of a Sudanese Arabic or Nuer translator are encouraged to visit Morwell Centrelink CSC, Cnr Chapel and Elgin Streets, Morwell, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1-5 pm. No appointment is necessary.
For more information, telephone the relevant Centrelink media contact.