Our Work
Translation Services
Our Approach
Our work helps people to understand each other
ARDS provides high-quality translation for English, Yolŋu languages, and Plain English. Our work helps people to understand each other and communicate across languages and cultures.
What We Offer
Yolŋu Matha ↔ English
We can translate between Yolŋu languages and English in a range of formats.
Plain English
We can translate your message into Plain English that is clear and accessible for Yolŋu.
Audio Recordings
We can record your message in Yolŋu languages so you have an audio version to share.
Concept Mapping
We can help you map out what you want to say and advise how to reach Yolŋu audiences.
Communicating in the NT
Not everyone in the Northern Territory shares the same language. Yolŋu and Balanda talk about the world in very different ways. This can make communication difficult, especially when you are trying to say something complex or technical.
This is where ARDS comes in. We can translate your message so that it is understandable, relevant, and meaningful for the people you are trying to reach.
Our translation work also helps keep Yolŋu languages strong, visible and respected. Find out more about Yolŋu languages and the work of our Language Centre.
Pricing
Hourly Rate
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Professional translation services provided by experts
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Final costs depend on the complexity, urgency, language, and whether you need help refining your message.
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Send us the materials you'd like translated for a quote
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Minimum 2 hours
Initial Consult
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Meet with our expert translators and linguists
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Scope your project
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Plan the best way to communicate your message
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Assess whether we are the right fit
Frequently Asked Questions
What languages do you translate?
If you’re not sure which language suits your audience, we can advise you.
Do you offer interpreting?
No. We provide translation services only.
Translation is converting written text, or pre-recorded audio or video, from one language into another.
Interpreting is converting spoken language in real time, for example during meetings, phone calls, or speeches.
If you need an interpreter, we recommend the Aboriginal Interpreter Service.
How much does translation cost?
Our hourly rate is $190 + GST. The minimum charge is 2 hours.
Costs vary depending on the complexity of the message, the urgency, the language, and if you need help to develop the content. To provide an accurate quote, we need to see the materials you’d like translated.
Alternatively, you can request an initial consult $450 + GST with our expert team of linguists and translators to discuss your project and explore the best way to communicate your message.
Can I request a quote without having my content finalised?
Yes.
You can submit the enquiry form even if you don’t have your content ready. We can help you shape your message and advise on the best ways to communicate it.
In these cases, we often recommend booking an initial consult that involves meeting with the language team to chat about your communication needs. After that we can then provide a more accurate quote. Get in touch if you aren’t sure.
What is the expected timeframe?
Our minimum timeframe is around 6 weeks from when the quote is accepted. But it really depends on the job.
Some jobs can take several months, bigger projects may take over a year.
There is high demand for translation work. The more notice you can give us, the better.
Why do you translate into Plain English first?
If your document is in English, we start with a Plain English translation.
This is a necessary step that helps unpack complex ideas and reduce confusion for Yolŋu audiences.
ARDS offers Plain English Training workshops if you would like to learn more.
What types of things can you translate?
We can translate most formats, including written, audio, and visual materials.
In the past, we have worked on documents, posters, scripts, subtitles, audio recordings, radio announcements, documentaries, weather warnings, health and education materials, legal information, children’s books, learning resources, shows, and more.
If you aren’t sure, get in touch.
What happens after I submit the form?
Our Language Team reviews your request and checks whether we can take on the job. We may contact you with follow‑up questions before we prepare a quote. This step can take some time, so please allow a couple of weeks.
Once you accept the quote, we begin the translation work. All jobs include a set number of revisions as part of our process. If your materials change after the work has started, extra costs may apply.