It's a reality which NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden has experienced first-hand.
"Some 30 years ago, I had books of this type to try and traverse the challenges of multiculturalism," he said on Wednesday holding the old handbook.
Now, police across the state will have 200 common phrases in 29 languages in their pocket with a new translation app.
Phrases include operational statements, such as providing a way for police to tell people they are wearing body-worn video cameras.
More complex matters can be escalated to interpreters on call around the clock.
"This is a fundamental evolution of the way we're connecting with our communities right across the state," Mr McFadden said.
The app would also reduce a stressor for under-pressure officers, Police Minister Yasmin Catley said.
"Every single second counts, so to have that interpreting facility and the understanding in your pocket will mean that these critical incidents are done a lot more efficiently," she said.
About 30 per cent of the NSW population were born overseas and more than a quarter speak a language other than English at home, making it one of the nation's most multicultural states.
The app was developed with Multicultural NSW, after leaders expressed a need to foster better relationships between police and the community.
Ciel Yuan works with people from non-English speaking backgrounds at Counterpoints Multicultural Centre in Sydney.
About half of her clients have difficulty interacting with police, she said.
"The communication issue creates frustrations," she said.
While the app is worthwhile for police on scene, Ms Yuan said many of her clients were hesitant to call police because of the language barrier.
She said there have been instances where police did not come after her clients called because of miscommunication.
Mr McFadden said the app in its current form is a foundational piece of technology, and they hope to expand the languages and phrases immediately available to officers in future.
His message to people from non-English speaking backgrounds who felt anxious about police interactions was clear.
"Work with us, be patient, but take the opportunity to build trust," he said.
"It's a two-way street and we welcome every opportunity we gain with our community."
19°C