Helping Tasmanians overcome language barriers

Tasmania's growing community of migrants and refugees will have easier access to important energy information following a collaboration between Aurora Energy and Amigos Interpreters and Translators.

The two organisations have teamed up to design flyers in languages other than English, outlining the help available for customers who may be struggling as well as highlight energy saving advice.

Managing Director of Amigos Interpreters and Translators, Michael Morgan, said the benefits would be long-lasting.

“With thousands of migrants and refugees moving to the state each year, it is extremely important that the general community, businesses and Governments realise that people who do not speak English have little access to information that can assist them in improving their lives,” Mr Morgan said.

“Refugees in particular come from disadvantaged backgrounds so what Aurora Energy is doing is showing leadership in the area of inclusivity for all.

“The fact Aurora required the translations to be completed by NAATI Certified translators shows they are serious about delivering accurate messages and providing relevant support to all their customers.”

Established in 1996, Amigos Interpreters and Translators is the first and only continuously operating, non-government interpreting and translating agency in Tasmania.

The five chosen languages – Arabic, Burmese, Nepali, Persian and Tigrinya – were determined to be the most likely to have limited English and to come from low socioeconomic backgrounds.

Aurora Energy CEO Nigel Clark said he was proud of the business becoming more inclusive.

“As Tasmania’s 100 per cent owned and operated energy retailer, we genuinely care about our communities and we’re committed to ensuring we communicate effectively with all Tasmanians,” Mr Clark said.

“We hope our proactive steps will help members of migrant and refugee communities stay on top of their energy costs. We’ll continue to strive to help as many Tasmanians as we can.”

The translated payment support flyers can be found at https://auroraenergy.com.au/about/aurora-community/info-hub