Case Study 1: Government & Community Engagement
A state public health department partnered with OZTranslation Services to improve engagement among 15+ culturally and linguistically diverse communities after previous translated campaigns failed to resonate. The goal was not just translation, but meaningful communication that builds trust.
Project Details
Client
Government / Public Health
Point of Contact
State Government Department
Language Pair
15+ (Arabic, Mandarin, and more)
Service Requirements
Community-focused multilingual translation Translation tailored to reflect the cultural values, tone, and communication style of each target community.
Cultural localisation advisory Expert guidance on adapting messaging so it aligns with cultural norms, sensitivities, and expectations.
Public-health communication expertise
Specialist knowledge in translating medical and health information accurately while keeping it clear and accessible.
Linguists accredited by NAATI
NAATI Certified translators who meet nationally recognised standards for translation quality and accuracy.
The Challenge
Previous campaigns relied on literal translations that were linguistically accurate but culturally ineffective. Messaging sounded overly clinical and authoritative, which reduced trust and participation among CALD communities where credibility is relationship-based rather than institution-based.
The department needed a partner who could localise intent, tone, and cultural meaning—not just words.
Our Response
We acted as cultural communication consultants, redesigning the campaign to align with community norms, values, and communication styles. Instead of translating messages directly, we reshaped them to sound relatable, respectful, and community-centric.
NAATI-Certified Translators
Specialist team with mechanical engineering backgrounds
Multimedia Expertise
Dedicated unit for professional video content localization
Integrated Solution
Consistency and clarity across all content formats
The Process in Action
Specialist Linguist Matching: Assigned accredited linguists with proven medical and public-health experience.
Cultural Context Mapping: Analysed communication norms, trust structures, and sensitivities before the translation service began.
Tone Re-Engineering: Reframed directive messaging into empathetic, family-focused language.
Visual Localisation Guidance:Advised on culturally appropriate colours, imagery, and layouts.
Multichannel Optimisation: Adapted content for brochures, social media, radio, and WhatsApp micro-formats rather than reusing one translation.
The Impact
The campaign delivered measurable success, including a 40% increase in participation from target language communities and strong endorsement from respected community leaders and elders. Audiences demonstrated a clearer understanding of preventative health practices, while misinformation across community channels noticeably declined. As trust grew, local outreach events also saw significantly higher attendance, reflecting deeper engagement and stronger community connection.
Most importantly, public perception shifted, and government messaging began to feel relevant, respectful, and trustworthy.
A Word From Our Client
“This campaign succeeded because it spoke to communities, not at them. The localisation strategy transformed our outreach from informational to impactful.”
Dominic Claxton
Director, Community Health Engagement, Public Health Department
Want your message to resonate across cultures, not just translate?
See how we can help.