Learning for Employment’s Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) has reached a new milestone, celebrating 75 years of supporting newly arrived migrants and humanitarian entrants to learn English and settle successfully in Australia.
AMEP is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs and offers free English language tuition to migrants and humanitarian entrants aged 18 years and older.
The program teaches English to over 3000 adult students in the western suburbs of Melbourne, as well as providing services to the Geelong and Ballarat regions.
The program celebrated its 75th birthday on August 24, at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans, alongside Fraser MP Dr Daniel Mulino, Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire, Melton mayor Lara Carli and AMEP teachers and students.
Fraser MP Dr Daniel Mulino offered his congratulations for the program’s milestone, and said critical language programs such as the AMEP ensured that culturally and linguistically diverse communities can flourish.
“A key part of the success of our migration story has been appropriate settlement and support services,” he said.
“Research shows that language is the single most important area that can promote integration for migrants. Language is critical to people’s independence as they start life in a new country.
“Congratulations to all who provide AMEP services and to the program for the incredible support it has provided over 75 years.”
Learning for Employment delivers AMEP through a network of local community organisations including, Community Plus, Djerriwarrh Community and Education Services, Laverton Community Integrated Services, Wyndham Community and Education Services and Yarraville Community Centre.
Hannah Hammoud
