What we do
Interpretation Australia (IA) was founded in 1992, initially known as Interpretation Australia Association. As a professional association of interpreters, the organisation supports professionals who interpret Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.
IA’s growing membership brings together people from diverse fields including museums, national parks, visitor centres, wildlife parks, aquaria, botanic gardens, councils, art galleries, historic and cultural sites and tour operators. Members also include those that provide services to the interpretation industry including designers, artists, planners, researchers, architects, archaeologists, historians and fabricators.
The contexts in which people practice natural and cultural heritage interpretation continue to expand and evolve. As Australia’s peak-body for natural and cultural heritage interpretation, IA’s role in nurturing interpretation practice and its practitioners, has never been more important.
The Interpretation Australia Strategic Plan 2023 - 2028 is a simple, honest and achievable plan that focuses on amplifying what IA does well, rather than seeking broad-scale transformation. Our point of difference is our sole focus on interpretation and interpreters within Australia. Download a copy of the plan here.
Vision
Interpretation is valued in the protection and sharing of Australia’s natural, social and cultural heritage.
Values
Member-centric
We work to ensure our members are valued, supported and skilled professionals.
Sustainable
We aim for sustainability, aligning our resources with our aspirations.
Safe
We consider each other’s safety and wellbeing in all that we do.
Collaborative
Interpreting natural and cultural heritage is multi-layered so we foster partnerships between individuals and organisations.
Inclusive
Our members come from a range of sectors, locations, experience levels and cultural backgrounds.
Mission
Nurture the professional practice and practitioners of interpretation within Australia.