Websites and resources where patients can access translated resources
Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming, especially when English isn’t your first language. Australia has several high-quality, government-funded services designed to provide reliable health information in multiple languages.
Below is a list of the key websites and services where you can find translated health resources.
1. Comprehensive Health Directories
These sites act as “libraries” for translated health information, covering everything from chronic diseases to general wellness.
- Health Translations Victoria: One of the most extensive libraries in Australia. It provides direct links to over 35,000 resources in more than 130 languages. You can search by topic (e.g., diabetes, pregnancy) or by specific language.
- Healthdirect – Multi-language Resources: The national public health information service. It offers a curated list of fact sheets and guides on common health conditions, the Australian healthcare system, and how to find a GP.
- NSW Multicultural Health Communication Service (MHCS): Provides over 450 publications on various health topics. They are known for high-quality, culturally reviewed translations and also offer audio and video resources.
2. Specialized Health Services
If you are looking for information on specific areas like mental health, aged care, or medicines, these services are the best starting point.
| Service | Focus Area | What they offer |
| Embrace Multicultural Mental Health | Mental Health | Fact sheets on mental wellbeing, depression, and anxiety in 20+ languages. |
| NPS MedicineWise | Medicines | Resources on how to use medicines safely, “5 questions to ask your doctor,” and medicine lists. |
| Transcultural Mental Health Centre (TMHC) | Mental Health | In-depth resources for patients and carers regarding clinical mental health support. |
| Diversity Aged Care | Aged Care | Information for older Australians and their families about accessing government-funded aged care. |
| Dementia Australia | Dementia | Fact sheets explaining dementia, its symptoms, and support options in various languages. |
3. Government Health Departments
Each state and territory, as well as the Federal Government, maintains its own database of translated materials.
- Department of Health (Federal): Best for national health campaigns, COVID-19/immunization info, and Medicare-related updates.
- Queensland Health: Offers an excellent range of “listening files” (audio) and fact sheets specifically tailored for the Queensland health system.
- HealthyWA: Provides multicultural health resources specifically for residents of Western Australia.
4. Immediate Interpreting Support
If you need to speak with a healthcare professional (like a doctor or pharmacist) and they don’t speak your language, you can use the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).
- Phone: 131 450
- Availability: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Cost: Usually free for patients when used through a doctor or hospital.
Tip: When visiting a GP or hospital, you can always ask for an interpreter. Most public health providers are required to provide one at no cost to you.