In a dedicated effort to improve support for newly arrived migrants, the federal government has announced a substantial investment of $1.5 million in the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP).
This funding infusion aims to ensure that the AMEP aligns with the unique requirements of migrants and their families, facilitating their integration into Australian society.
Boosting English Proficiency for Social and Economic Inclusion
The financial injection into the AMEP is directed at assisting migrants in attaining a level of English proficiency that empowers them to actively engage in social and economic activities within Australia. The allocated funds will facilitate:
- Additional Pathways to Employment: The initiative will open new avenues for AMEP participants to access employment opportunities in specific sectors, including hospitality, beauty, horticulture, and social enterprises. This strategic approach seeks to bridge the language gap and equip migrants with the linguistic skills needed to thrive in these fields.
- Tailored Tuition for Specific Cohorts: Recognizing the diverse needs of different migrant groups, the funding will enable tailored tuition for specific cohorts. This includes Afghan women, survivors of torture and trauma, as well as disengaged and at-risk clients. By tailoring the educational experience to cater to their unique circumstances, the AMEP aims to facilitate effective language learning and integration.
Minister for Immigration Andrew Giles commends the initiative
Minister Giles, who announced the funding in Perth, praised the commitment of the Federal Government to empower migrants through language acquisition and skill development.
He said, “After a decade of neglect under the Liberals, the Albanese Labor Government is working to restore vital funding to the AMEP, so that new migrants get every opportunity to develop the English language skills they need to thrive in Australia, in a way that suits them, and their families.”
“This combination of language learning and work experience will lead to better employment opportunities for students and provide employers with access to a previously underutilised workforce.”
“Innovative Projects will also allow AMEP service providers to support vulnerable groups, whether it’s people who have suffered trauma, haven’t been part of a formal education system, or face cultural or personal challenges that limit their participation in education and employment.”
The funding announcement occurred during Minister Giles’ visit to North Metropolitan TAFE, an AMEP service provider with a significant presence in the program.
Two Innovative Projects to Drive Progress
As a direct outcome of the funding allocation, Perth’s North Metropolitan TAFE will undertake two Innovative Projects designed to foster language proficiency and socio-economic integration:
- Social Enterprise in the AMEP: This project introduces a practical course hosted at the Multicultural Services Centre of WA. Participants engage in activities related to setting up social enterprises. The project specifically targets women from Myanmar, offering English language training, financial literacy education, and business skills development.
- Confidence Building in the AMEP: Addressing the unique challenges faced by specific migrant groups, this initiative focuses on clients from the Association of Survivors of Torture and Trauma Services (AseTTs). The program is tailored for individuals who are unable to participate in traditional classroom settings due to factors like isolation, trauma, or lack of confidence. The project supports Afghan women and Eritrean men, facilitating language acquisition while building their confidence to engage in education and employment.
Minister Giles also underscored the role of Innovative Projects in extending support to vulnerable groups, ensuring that individuals who have faced trauma, educational gaps, or cultural challenges receive tailored assistance for education and employment.
This funding boost in the AMEP not only underscores its commitment to fostering the integration of migrants but also reflects a proactive approach to bridging language barriers and cultivating a diverse and thriving Australian community.
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