Exploring sustainable funding and service delivery models for interpreter services
Access to professional interpreters is an important part of safe, equitable and person-centred healthcare. When people cannot communicate effectively with their healthcare team, there can be consequences for understanding, informed consent, treatment decisions and the overall experience of care. The challenges of accessing interpreters have been highlighted in the Australian health context for many years, including the impact of relying on family members or navigating difficult booking processes.
Following the 2026 VICS CALD Optimal Care Summit, WCMICS undertook a scoping project to better understand how interpreter services are currently funded and delivered across the region, and what is needed to support more sustainable access.
The project found that interpreter access is influenced by much more than funding alone. Workforce availability, booking and clinical workflows, data, governance and accountability all play a role. Across WCMICS health services, hybrid models combining in-house and agency interpreters are currently used, but workforce shortages, after-hours gaps and fragmented systems can make reliable access challenging.
The report identifies five areas for action: regional leadership and partnerships; strengthening the evidence base; service redesign; developing a sustainable workforce and service model; and evidence-informed advocacy.
This work provides a foundation for WCMICS and its health service partners to explore practical opportunities to improve interpreter access and support more equitable cancer care.
