Working with interpreters in investigate interviews: machines, tools, conduits, mouthpieces, professionals and humans

Introduction Increased diversity is evident in the languages and cultures represented in Australia. A need exists for police officers to be able to communicate with members of the communities in which they work, regardless of whether they share English as a common language. From remote Aboriginal communities, to urban areas with a high proportion of migrants and humanitarian entrants, for some community members, English is a second, third or other language. Some community members may know just enough English to complete basic daily activities, such as shopping in their local area. However, they lack the English proficiency needed to report a crime as a victim or witness, or to explain their role in suspected criminal activity. Interpreters can assist police to communicate effectively with people in such circumstances. Police work with interpreters in a variety of contexts, including negotiations, covert operations, and investigative interviews. Interpreters assist in spoken interactions between two people in two or more languages (and respective dialects) in both directions. By contrast, translators deal only with written language.