AUSIT Webinar | 20260624 Ethics in Translation When Principles Meet Practice

Ethical decision-making in translation is rarely as simple as applying a rule to a clear-cut situation.

Translators often work with incomplete briefs, tight deadlines, sensitive content, client expectations, agency requirements, and questions about accuracy, transparency, confidentiality, and professional boundaries.

This interactive PD session will explore ethical challenges that arise in real translation practice. Drawing on scenarios submitted by practitioners and stakeholders, the workshop will examine how translators can make sound professional decisions when competing responsibilities or practical constraints are at play.

Facilitated by Dr Jim Hlavac, the session will invite participants to consider how the AUSIT Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct can guide decision-making in complex situations. Participants will discuss selected scenarios in small breakout groups, then return to the main room for a guided discussion on possible responses, professional reasoning, and what good ethical practice may look like in context.

Familiarity with the AUSIT Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct, particularly the sections relevant to translators and translation practice is required for this webinar.

Biography of our Presenter – Dr Jim Hlavac
Dr Jim Hlavac is an adjunct senior research fellow at Monash University. He is a practising NAATI-certified translator and interpreter. He has 12 years’ experience as a translator and interpreter instructor at post-graduate level and has led PD training for translators and interpreters across a variety of fields and topics.