August 8, 2025#WeAreNorthern
Meet Imad Hirmiz, Arabic, Chaldean and Assyrian Interpreter and Translator, Transcultural and Language Services (TALS), Northern Health.
Q: Firstly, let’s start with your coffee order.
A: An extra hot almond milk latte.
Q: Tell us about your role at Northern Health.
A: I’m a NAATI-certified interpreter and translator in three languages: Arabic, Chaldean, and Assyrian. My role is to facilitate communication between clinicians and patients—verbally, through interpreting, and in writing, by translating materials. In a diverse community like Northern Health, engaging interpreters and translators is essential for delivering quality health services. I often describe Northern Health as a mini version of Victoria, reflecting its incredible cultural diversity.
I joined the TALS team in 2009, and since then, the demand for interpreting services has grown significantly, especially with the increase in refugees settling in the area, many of whom speak Arabic.
While the core of our role is bridging the communication gap between clinicians and patients with limited English proficiency, our responsibilities go far beyond that. We also translate patient information brochures and other materials into key languages, review documents for cultural appropriateness, and contribute to the production of Northern Health publications.
At times, we act as cultural mediators, giving voice to patients from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. We’re also involved in research conducted by Northern Health clinicians – translating research documents, performing sight translations, interpreting for focus groups, or simply participating as cultural representatives.
Q: What is the best part of working as an Interpreter?
A: While we support both clinicians and patients, we often feel like the guiding light for patients from CALD communities as they navigate the Australian healthcare system. It’s a deeply rewarding job. Knowing that we’re making a difference and providing support to those in need brings immense personal satisfaction.
It’s also incredibly fulfilling to see CALD patients participate in research and stay informed about the latest medical advancements—with our help. Knowing that we play a role in this makes us feel like we’ve truly served our purpose.
Q: How do you resonate with Northern Health’s values of Safe, Kind and Together?
A: When it comes to kindness, interpreters often go above and beyond. We might accompany patients to radiology or pathology, help them book outpatient appointments, or guide them around the hospital, all to make their experience a little easier.
We also work closely with clinicians to ensure safe and effective communication that supports the best care possible. I’ve assisted many clinicians with their research and have participated in numerous projects at Northern Health, whether as a bilingual contributor or in my capacity as a translator/interpreter. These efforts help ensure people with limited English proficiency have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to research and future healthcare innovations. Most recently, I was involved in a Cancer Clinical Trial, which was a rewarding experience.
Q: If you weren’t an interpreter, what would you have been instead?
A: A migration agent. I’ve always had an interest in law, and I would have loved helping refugees and migrants with their migration and settlement needs.
Q: Favourite place to travel and why?
A: California, USA. I love that the weather is similar to Melbourne’s, and I really enjoyed its stunning landscapes and vibrant entertainment.
Locally, Cairns is a must-visit destination – it’s full of natural beauty and unique experiences.
Q: Do you have any hidden talents?
A: I initially studied electrical engineering before changing my career path to interpreting and translating, later completing a master’s degree in social sciences with a major in interpreting and translating. However, my true passion lies in writing.
Pictured: Imad at Universal Studios – Hollywood, California, USA.
