AMEP review seeks community input
Tuesday, 15 July 2008
Australia’s Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is being reviewed and community input is sought on how best to assist migrants and humanitarian entrants learn English to find a job, undertake further training and participate fully in the Australian community.
Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services Laurie Ferguson today released a discussion paper outlining a proposed direction based on previous input from key stakeholders.
‘Comments on this discussion paper are a further opportunity for stakeholders who may not have attended focus group meetings held in May to provide input to the review of the AMEP which I announced in April,’ Mr Ferguson said.
‘The discussion paper addresses issues raised by stakeholders including AMEP clients, teachers, settlement service providers, employers and state governments.
‘Learning English is one of the first and most important steps migrants can take towards successful settlement.
‘The AMEP has for 60 years played an important role helping migrants and humanitarian entrants learn English after they arrive in Australia and orienting them to life in Australia. It is this role which government is intending to strengthen through a greater focus in the key areas of employment, training and social participation,’ the parliamentary secretary added.
The AMEP discussion paper is available on the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website.
See: AMEP Review Discussion Paper
Media Contact: Khaldoun Hajaj - 0404 078 692
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au
/parlsec/media/media-releases/2008/lf08044.htm
Last update: 13 August 2008 at 17:14 AEST