Being able to speak and write English well can make all the difference for migrants wanting to find work and to connect with other Australians.
That’s why the government offers free English learning programs for certain migrants and refugees.
The Australian Migrant English Program (AMEP)
Yazidi Refugees learning English at TAFE NSW Riverina Institute (SBS Arabic 24) Source: SBS Arabic 24
It’s a program aimed at newly-arrived migrants so they can learn the foundation of English and settlement skills. Eligible people can get up to 510 hours of free English tuition.
Am I eligible?
You need to be a permanent resident or have an , like a Partner visa or a Temporary Protection visa.
You need to register with an AMEP provider within six months of your arrival to Australia. Children and teenagers under 18 have 12 months to register. You then have to start your course within 12 months and complete it within five years.
How do I enrol?
There are almost 300 AMEP providers in Australia. Have a look at the list and contact the one closest to you to enrol.
Information in your language
Most AMEP providers will have bilingual staff to help you in your language when you make your initial inquiry. There will also often be bilingual volunteers in the classrooms.
Skills for Education and Employment (SEE)
Learning the English alphabet (Image via Pro-Image photography) Source: Pro-Image photography
The SEE program might be for you if you’ve been in Australia for longer than six months, already have a foundation in English, but need to improve your language skills to find a job.
Eligible people have access to up to 800 hours of free literacy and numeracy training, geared towards finding a job.
Who is eligible?
You have to:
- Be between 15 and 64 years old
- Be registered as a job seeker with the Department of Human Services (DHS)
- Not be a full-time student
- Meet the rules on visa status and benefits
How do I enrol?
You need to be referred by the DHS and employment service providers like jobactive or ParentsNext.
You can call the DHS at this number to have more information: 132 850
Flexible learning
Both programs offer very flexible learning environments. It means that it’s possible to study in a classroom or do distance learning, you can study full-time or part-time, during the day or in the evening.
If you attend the AMEP in classrooms, there will be free childcare provided for children under school age.
File image of children playing at a child care centre Source: AAP
A pathway to professional courses and employment
Since adult learning providers give those English classes, it will make it easier to pathway into professional courses once you’ve finished your English courses. There are many migrants in the adult learning system, so a lot of the courses are geared towards their needs.
Useful links
