English language program for migrants set for overhaul amid concerns about proficiency

Prime Minister Scott Morrison poses for photos with new citizens during an Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony in Canberra.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison poses for photos with new citizens during an Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony in Canberra. Source: AAP

Changes to the Adult Migrant English Program are among a number of moves the government is making to boost social cohesion as Australia emerges from the coronavirus pandemic.


A billion-dollar government English language teaching program is being extended and made more accessible amid concerns those who participate are not leaving with a "functional level" of skill.

Acting Immigration Minister Alan Tudge announced changes to the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) at the National Press Club on Friday, which include the lifting of the the cap on class hours and removing the five year time limit in which those eligible can access the scheme.

The AMEP currently provides most migrants 510 hours of free language tuition.

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