The NSW Government has officially launched Language+, a cutting-edge mobile app that enables every frontline police officer in the state to access interpreting services 24/7. The initiative marks a major step forward in improving communication between police and the state’s multicultural communities.
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The Language+ app is now live on over 12,000 NSW Police Force devices, providing officers with immediate access to a library of 200+ translated and pre-recorded phrases in 29 different languages. It also offers direct connection to certified interpreters, helping ensure accurate communication during both routine encounters and high-pressure incidents.
In just its first week of soft launch, the app saw over 1,500 users, highlighting the demand and usefulness of this new technology.
A Response to NSW’s Growing Diversity
According to the 2021 Census, nearly 30% of NSW residents were born overseas, and more than one in four people speak a language other than English at home. With such cultural and linguistic diversity, tools like Language+ are seen as essential to modern policing.
Developed by Multicultural NSW in partnership with the NSW Police Force, the app was created with input from both community members and frontline officers to ensure it meets real-world needs.
Benefits of the Language+ App
- Faster incident response by streamlining communication
- Improved engagement and trust between police and multicultural communities
- More inclusive policing, allowing officers to better support victims, witnesses, and residents with limited English
- Time-saving resource that helps officers move efficiently from one call to the next
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Voices Behind the Launch
Minister for Police, Yasmin Catley, said:
“Being a police officer is more demanding than ever, but with new technology, we’re making it easier for them to serve and protect the community.
Language+ gives every front-line officer instant access to professional Multicultural NSW interpreters, 24/7 — so they have the tools and confidence to keep our communities safe.”
Minister for Multiculturalism, Steve Kamper, added:
“The new Language+ app ensures more effective communication between police and the community, breaking down language barriers and fostering trust.”
“This initiative is a great example of the NSW Government’s multi-agency approach to strengthening social cohesion in our diverse state.”
Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden, NSW Police Corporate Sponsor for Multiculturalism, said:
“We hope this app will help build trust with communities by minimising misunderstanding and reducing stress and frustration during emergencies.”
“The phrases have also been specifically designed by certified interpreters for everyday interactions between police and people, whether they are victims or witnesses.”
As the app continues to roll out across the state, it is expected to become a vital tool for ensuring NSW’s public safety services remain inclusive, responsive, and effective — no matter the language spoken.
For more on NSW Police’s community engagement initiatives, visit police.nsw.gov.au.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Anderson
