The Language Assistance Services (LAS) Programme is a cross-government programme that aims to improve access, quality, consistency and coordination of language assistance services (interpreting and translation) in the public sector. These services are for people with limited or no English language proficiency living in or visiting New Zealand, in particular migrants and former refugees.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is the Lead Agency for this service, and over 60 other government agencies are participating and extensively using interpreting services.

Previously, we have relied on a single provider to deliver telephone and video interpreting services. MBIE has made the decision to transition from a single provider to a panel of 3-5 providers. Establishing a panel of telephone and video interpreting service providers will ensure that there is a range of interpreters and languages available to meet the needs of people throughout the country, and provide business continuity for New Zealand government.

A tender for the contract to be one of the providers will be listed via the Government Electronic Tender Service (GETS) website on 27 July 2023, and close on 24 August 2023.

 Language Assistance Services – Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment website