Multilingual services

If you've recently moved to Australia or do not speak English, we offer various language services to help you communicate with us.

Free interpreting services

In person

We provide a free interpreter service for all customers.

When you come to our offices, tell our receptionist what language you speak and ask for an interpreter. We will check if a bilingual staff member is available or telephone an interpreting service to help you communicate with us.

Please phone us first on 03 9217 2170 if you would like us to arrange for an interpreter to be present in-person.

By phone

If you are a non-English speaker and need to phone us, first call the National Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 131 450.

You'll be: 

  • asked to state your language
  • connected to the TIS National operator
  • asked to repeat your language
  • connected to your interpreter.

Once connected you'll be asked your name and who you wish to be connected to.

  • Ask to be connected to The City of Whittlesea
  • Tell them the phone number is 03 9217 2170

Wait until the operator connects us.

This service is completely free. 

  

Language aides and bilingual staff

We have bilingual staff who are trained to help you communicate with us in your preferred language. This can be on the phone or face-to-face at our offices.

These language aides support prompt communication with our local residents from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.

Learn English

If you or your family want to learn English, some of our neighbourhood houses offer classes and short courses.

Learn more about community-based learning through neighbourhood houses

Multilingual website

You can read information about the following topics in languages other than English on our website:

  • your home and family
  • government and laws
  • health and safety
  • what you need to know about living in the City of Whittlesea.

You can also select to view all of the webpages on our website in your language of choice via the Google Translate option