Understanding the AUSIT Code of Ethics
Mar 04, 2025
At ABC, we are dedicated to providing high-quality language services with a commitment to professionalism and integrity. One of the key pillars guiding our practices is the AUSIT Code of Ethics, which outlines the fundamental principles of ethical conduct for translators and interpreters in Australia.
What is the AUSIT Code of Ethics?
The Australian Institute of Interpreters and Translators (AUSIT) is a professional body that represents translators and interpreters across Australia. The AUSIT Code of Ethics is a set of guidelines developed by this organisation to ensure that language professionals adhere to the highest standards of practice and conduct in their work.
The Code is designed to promote trust, respect, and professionalism in the industry. It outlines the core values that translators and interpreters should follow, covering everything from confidentiality to impartiality, and ensuring that the interests of clients, the broader community, and the integrity of the profession are always prioritised.
Key Principles of the AUSIT Code of Ethics
The AUSIT Code of Ethics consists of several key principles that guide the behaviour of translators and interpreters. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most important principles:
- Accuracy: Interpreters and translators use their best professional judgement in remaining faithful at all times to the meaning of texts and messages. They transfer messages optimally and completely into the target language preserving the content and intent of the source message or text without omission or distortion.
- Confidentiality: Interpreters and translators maintain confidentiality and do not disclose information acquired in the course of their work, as do the persons they work with in professional or business fields.
- Impartiality: Interpreters and translators observe impartiality in all professional contacts. Interpreters remain unbiased throughout the communication exchanged between the participants in any interpreted encounter. Translators do not show bias towards either the author of the source text or the intended readers of their translation.
- Competence: Language professionals only undertake work they are competent to perform in the languages for which they are professionally qualified through training and credentials.
- Clarity of Role Boundaries: Interpreters and translators maintain clear boundaries between their task as facilitators of communication through message transfer and any tasks that may be undertaken by other parties involved in the assignment. Practitioners do not, in the course of their interpreting or translation duties, engage in other tasks such as advocacy, guidance or advice.
The Code of Ethics and NAATI
It’s important to note that the Code of Ethics is a key requirement for those seeking certification through the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI). Translators and interpreters must demonstrate their knowledge of these ethical guidelines and their ability to navigate a range of ethical challenges before becoming NAATI-certified.
Why It Matters to You
Choosing a translation or interpreting service is an important decision, and it's essential to be confident in the integrity and professionalism of the service you are receiving. Ethical guidelines like the AUSIT Code of Ethics play a significant role in maintaining high standards across the language services industry, ensuring that services are delivered with respect, accuracy, and cultural sensitivity.
If you have any questions about our services or would like to learn more about how we uphold the Code of Ethics, contact us today!