Communications and Marketing Campaigns

• Are there services that offer help in developing campaigns/strategies to target culturally and linguistically diverse communities in NSW?

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Cultural Competence in the health sector

• What are the key components of a culturally competent health service?

The following frameworks and plans may be of help:

National Health and Medical Research Council

• NSW Health

• Queensland Health

• Victoria Health

• South Australia Health

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Language Services

• Where can I find an Interpreter in NSW?

If you are accessing a NSW Health service there are health care interpreter services available in Local Health Districts. Their contact numbers are available in the following publication: Multicultural Health Directory

Alternatively you may contact the Translating & Interpreting Service (TIS) on 131 450. The Australian Government, through the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, provides TIS for people who do not speak English and for English speakers needing to communicate with them.

TIS is Australia's only national service, and is available to any person or organisation in Australia requiring interpreting services. TIS is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is accessible from anywhere in Australia for the cost of a local call.

• Can I ask for an Interpreter in hospital?

Yes. According to the 'NSW Health Circular Standard Procedures for the Use of Health Care Interpreters' (94/10) all clients of non-English speaking background should be informed about the Health Care Interpreter Service (HCIS) and their ability to access a professional health care interpreter.

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NSW Multicultural Health Communication Service Website Information

• Can I reproduce resources/publications on the website?

Permission is required in order to reproduce any resources/publications on the website. Please contact the service for further information: mhcs@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au

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Services and Multicultural Organisations

• What health services are available for culturally diverse communities in NSW?

The Multicultural Health Directory provides details of services and programs for culturally diverse communities in NSW.

• What are the peak organisations for multicultural communities in NSW?

A listing of peak organisations for multicultural communities in NSW is provided by the Community Relations Commission.

• Is there a directory of multicultural health services?

Yes. The Multicultural Health Directory provides details of services and programs for culturally diverse communities in NSW.

• Where can I get information on issues to do with immigration and visas?

Contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship.

• Where can I get information about Medicare eligibility?

Call Translating and Interpreting Service National on 131 450 about Medicare. You can also visit one of their Service Centres that offer free interpreters and document translations for Human Services business.

• Where can I get information about government financial assistance and help finding work?

Visit the Centrelink website

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