What CALD means
Culturally and linguistically diverse is a broad term for people whose cultural background or language is different from the English speaking majority in Australia. It includes migrants and refugees, people born in Australia to migrant families, and people who speak a language other than English at home. The NDIA's CALD strategy also recognises the Deaf community, whose first language is often Auslan.
Many CALD families face extra barriers with the NDIS: unfamiliar language and paperwork, different ideas about disability and family care, and few providers who speak their language.
Free interpreters for NDIS contact
The NDIS has partnered with TIS National, the Translating and Interpreting Service, so you can talk with the NDIS in your language at no cost. Call TIS National on 131 450 and ask them to call the NDIS on 1800 800 110.
You can ask for an interpreter for planning meetings, reassessments and phone calls. Tell the NDIA early if you have a preferred interpreter, need an in person interpreter or would like a longer meeting. Registered providers can also access funded interpreting through TIS National for the supports they deliver, so ask your provider to book one rather than relying on a family member.
The NDIA's CALD strategy
The NDIA released its Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Strategy and Action Plan 2024 to 2028, developed with the National Ethnic Disability Alliance and community organisations. Its aims are to make it easier for CALD communities to take part in the NDIS, to improve participants' experience, and to make sure plans meet CALD participants' needs.
One of its actions is to improve how NDIS meetings work with interpreters, including Auslan, such as allowing longer meetings, preferred interpreters and in person interpreting.
Making your plan fit your culture
Your plan should reflect your life, including your culture, faith, language and family. You can say this in your planning meeting and in your goals.
- Ask for a support worker who speaks your language or understands your culture
- Include cultural and faith activities in your community participation goals
- Explain your family's role in care, and what is reasonable for them to keep doing
- Ask for written information in your language, or a plain English version read through with an interpreter
- Bring someone you trust to meetings, such as a family member, advocate or community worker
Finding culturally matched providers
If your plan is self managed or plan managed, you can choose registered or unregistered providers, which widens your options. Many providers list the languages their workers speak. Ask about language, gender, cultural knowledge, food and prayer needs before you sign a service agreement.
Multicultural community organisations and disability advocacy services can also help you understand the NDIS, prepare for meetings and challenge decisions.
Interpreting needed because of disability
TIS National does not provide Auslan or First Nations language interpreting. If you need Auslan, tactile signing or other communication support because of your disability, the NDIS can fund interpreting and translation supports in your plan.