Media Release by Senator the Hon Concetta Fierravanti-Wells

New faces on NAATI Board

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Social Services, Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, has appointed three new members to the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) Board.

NAATI sets and maintains national standards in translating and interpreting and supports the development of credentialed translators and interpreters.

Senator Fierravanti-Wells said NAATI assists Australia’s diverse and changing communication needs and expectations.

“Today we share about 300 ancestries and speak as many languages. We are one of the world’s most diverse and cohesive nations,” she said.

“The government recognises the important role NAATI plays in maintaining standards for the translating and interpreting industry which supports Australia’s diversity.”

The newly appointed NAATI Board members are:

  • Mr John Williams PSM, who has extensive experience in government over four decades, was appointed to the board for a three-year term (from 1 September 2014 to 31 August 2017).
  • Ms Voula Messimeri AM, who has extensive experience in the language and multicultural sectors (from 1 November 2014 to 31 October 2017); and
  • Ms Mary Gurgone, who has a wealth of experience and technical knowledge of the translating and interpreting sector both as an administrator and practitioner (from 1 November 2014 to 31 October 2017).

Ms Kerry Stubbs was reappointed as Chair for a three-year term from 1 December 2014 and Professor Ludmila Stern was reappointed for a two-year term from 1 December 2014.

Senator Fierravanti-Wells congratulated the new members on their appointments.

“I look forward to working with them over the next three years to continue the important work of NAATI in supporting Australian residents who are not fluent in English to access mainstream services,” she said.

“I know the members will help NAATI improve inclusion and participation in Australian society.”

The first meeting of the new Board will take place at the NAATI Annual General Meeting on 20 November 2014.