Criminal Practice Rules 1999

A person must not act as an interpreter in a proceeding unless the person—

is currently certified, registered or recognised as an interpreter for the other language by a recognised agency, or otherwise satisfies the court that the person is qualified to act as an interpreter for the other language; and

has read and agreed to comply with the code of conduct; and

takes an oath, or makes an affirmation, to interpret accurately to the best of the person’s ability.

Also, a person must not act as an interpreter in a proceeding if the person—

is or may become a party to, or witness in, the proceeding (other than as an interpreter); or

is related to, or has a close personal relationship with—

a party to the proceeding or a member of a party’s family; or

a witness or potential witness in the proceeding; or

has or may have a financial or other interest of any kind in the outcome of the proceeding, other than an entitlement to a reasonable fee for the services provided by the interpreter in the course of their engagement; or

is or may be unable to fulfil their duty of accuracy or impartiality under the code of conduct for any reason, including, for example—

personal or religious beliefs; and

cultural or other circumstances.

If a person acting as an interpreter in a proceeding becomes aware during a hearing of the proceeding that a matter mentioned in subrule (2) applies in relation to the person, the person must—

cease to act as an interpreter in the proceeding; and

immediately disclose the matter to the court.