Published on: 8th July 2026
Key Takeaways
- Key Takeaway 1: Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) connects you with a qualified Auslan interpreter through a live video call instead of meeting in person.
- Key Takeaway 2: VRI is ideal for short appointments, urgent bookings and regional or remote locations. On-site interpreting is usually the better choice for complex, emotional or all-day appointments.
- Key Takeaway 3: You’ll need a computer, tablet or smartphone with a camera, a reliable internet connection and your preferred video platform.
- Key Takeaway 4: Deaf Connect provides both VRI and on-site interpreting services, helping you choose the option that best suits your appointment.
Accessing an Auslan interpreter is incredibly important to ensure that Deaf Australians and Auslan users have the same clear access to information as their hearing peers. In some instances there can be challenges with having an interpreter on site for example if there are no interpreters available at the time you need in your location or in emergency situations. Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) offers a flexible alternative, connecting you with a qualified interpreter through a live video call.
Many people and organisations booking an interpreter for the first time have heard the term VRI but aren’t sure how it works, what it involves, or whether it’s the right fit for their situation. The answer usually comes down to the type of appointment, how quickly you need an interpreter and whether face-to-face communication is imperative for a particular setting or situation.
This guide walks through what video remote interpreting is, how it works, and how to decide whether VRI or on-site interpreting is the better choice for your next appointment.
Quick Answer: What VRI Is and When to Use It
Video remote interpreting (VRI) connects you with a qualified Auslan interpreter through a live video call instead of meeting in person. Here are four things you need to know before you book:
- Engage with a qualified Auslan interpreter online in real time from almost anywhere in Australia.
- Best suited to short appointments, urgent bookings and regional or remote locations.
- On-site interpreting is usually the preferred choice for complex, high-context or all-day appointments.
- You’ll need a device with a camera, a reliable internet connection and your preferred video platform such as Zoom, FaceTime, or WhatsApp.
Deaf Connect provides VRI and on-site interpreting services across Australia. Explore our interpreting services to book the option that’s right for you.
What Is Video Remote Interpreting?
Video Remote Interpreting VRI allows a qualified Auslan interpreter to join an appointment through a secure video call rather than being physically present. The Deaf person, hearing person and interpreter communicate together in real time, which allows the interpreter to provide live Auslan interpretation throughout the conversation.
VRI is different from Video Relay Service (VRS), which enables Deaf people to make or receive telephone calls through the National Relay Services (NRS). Visit the NRS website here to learn more about their service.
How Does Video Remote Interpreting Work?
Booking a video remote interpreting appointment is simple. Once your booking is confirmed, your interpreter joins the appointment via your preferred video platform and facilitates communication in real time.
- Book a VRI interpreter with Deaf Connect and provide your appointment details.
- Let us know your preferred video platform, such as Zoom or FaceTime.
- Receive your booking confirmation and any joining details before your appointment.
- Join the video call at the scheduled time using your device.
- Your interpreter facilitates communication between the Deaf and hearing participants throughout the appointment.
When Is VRI the Right Choice (and When Isn’t It)?
Choosing between video remote interpreting services and on-site interpreting depends on the type of appointment, the setting and your communication needs.
Situations Where VRI Works Well
VRI is a practical option for short appointments, urgent bookings and one-off meetings where quick access to an interpreter is important. It’s also ideal for follow-up consultations, after-hours interpreting and supporting people in regional or remote communities where travelling to an appointment may not be practical. VRI makes it easier to access qualified interpreters across Australia.
When On-Site Interpreting Is Better
Face-to-face interpreting is often the better choice for complex or long medical appointments, legal proceedings, mental health consultations, emotionally sensitive conversations and group discussions. It may also be preferable where internet connectivity is unreliable. Deaf Connect provides both VRI and on-site interpreting services and can help you choose the option that best suits your appointment.
What You Need to Use VRI
Getting access to video remote interpreting for Deaf people is simple. Before your appointment, make sure you have:
- A computer, tablet or smartphone.
- A camera and microphone.
- A reliable internet connection.
- A quiet, well-lit space.
- Your preferred video platform ( Zoom, FaceTime, Microsoft Teams, etc)
VRI in Healthcare, Legal and Workplace Settings
Video remote interpreting supports clear communication across a wide range of professional settings where timely access to an Auslan interpreter online matters.
In healthcare, VRI is well-suited to GP appointments, specialist consultations and follow-up care, helping patients and healthcare professionals communicate with confidence. For legal consultations, VRI provides accurate communication through qualified professional interpreters.
In the workplace, VRI supports job interviews, meetings and staff training, making it easier to connect with an interpreter wherever they’re needed.
Deaf Connect has experienced interpreters who have worked across health, legal and government settings for years, so you’re working with interpreters who understand the context and sensitivity of these appointments and who will provide services professionally and confidentially.
VRI vs On-Site vs Phone Interpreting: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) | On-Site Interpreting | Spoken English to Text Interpreting |
| Best for | Short appointments, urgent bookings and remote locations | Complex, lengthy or sensitive appointments | Spoken language conversations without visual communication |
| Speed to access | Fast | May require more notice | Usually fast |
| Visual communication | Yes | Yes | No |
| Regional access | Excellent | Dependant on interpreter availability | Excellent |
| Complex conversations | Suitable for many appointments | Best option | Limited |
| Travel required | No | Yes | No |
How to Book Video Remote Interpreting in Australia
Booking video remote interpreting is straightforward. You can arrange an appointment via a direct booking with Deaf Connect. Additionally, eligible appointments may be funded through the National Sign Language Program (NSLP) for Deaf Seniors and eligible NDIS participants may be able to access VRI through their NDIS funding. Deaf employees needing to access an interpreter for their work may also be eligible to do so via the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF).
Simply provide your appointment details, choose your preferred video platform, and we’ll confirm your booking before the scheduled time. Same-day bookings may also be available where possible however the more notice we have for your booking, the better we can match our interpreters to your needs. Read more about our interpreting services to book a VRI interpreter anywhere in Australia.
What to Do Next
Book a video remote interpreting session with Deaf Connect if VRI is the right option for your appointment. Still have questions about how remote video interpreting works? Contact us at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
Is video remote interpreting the same as video relay service?
No. Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) allows a qualified Auslan interpreter to join an appointment through a live video call. Video Relay Service (VRS) is through the National Relay Service (NRS) and helps Deaf people make or receive telephone calls through an interpreter.
Is VRI as accurate as an on-site interpreter?
Yes. Qualified interpreters provide the same professional interpreting service whether they work remotely or face-to-face. However, on-site interpreting is often the better choice for complex situations like medical appointments and legal proceedings.
How quickly can I get a VRI interpreter?
VRI often provides faster access to an interpreter than arranging an on-site booking. Same-day and urgent bookings may be available, depending on interpreter availability.
Is video remote interpreting free in Australia?
Some video remote interpreting appointments may be funded. Eligible appointments may be covered through National Sign Language Program (NSLP) for Deaf Seniors, while eligible NDIS participants may be able to access VRI through their NDIS funding. Deaf employees may also be eligible to access interpreting services for their work through the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF). Visit our interpreting services page for more on costs and eligibility.
Do I need special software to use VRI?
No. Most people only need a computer, tablet or smartphone with a camera. You will also need a reliable internet connection and access to your preferred video platform, such as FaceTime.
Want to know more about VRI or other interpreting and language services Deaf Connect offers? Check out our Interpreting Services here: [LINK]
