The Federal Government is set to trial new projects within the Adult English Migrant Program (AMEP) to improve employment outcomes and boost language confidence for new migrants.
Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills Karen Andrews said the trial projects have been announced through AMEP’s inaugural Innovative Projects initiative.
“The projects include a podcast for migrants on speaking confidently about themselves and a targeted employment strategy for those living in regional and remote areas,” Minister Andrews said.
“AMEP is Australia’s largest English language programs and supports about 60,000 migrants per year to learn foundation language and settlement skills to enable them to participate socially and economically in Australia.
“The Turnbull Government has committed more than $2 million over the next four years to Innovative Projects to allow service providers to enhance the delivery of AMEP across the country,” Minister Andrews said.
“It’s fantastic to see service providers in AMEP have embraced this opportunity to think creatively about new ways to deliver tuition to some of the country’s most vulnerable communities.
“By investing in these innovative engagement and assessment models, AMEP will continue to evolve and deliver the best outcomes for migrants.”
Minister Andrews said the successful projects covered a diverse range of ideas including youth focused mentoring, skills recognition and digital literacy.
“As digital literacy becomes more important to the settlement of new migrants and humanitarian entrants, TAFE New South Wales will pilot a project to help AMEP clients build these skills and familiarise themselves with specific websites and resources,” Minister Andrews said.
“TAFE Queensland will help younger clients integrate into their local area by bringing them together with community members engaged in community, youth and counselling services through a Youth Mentoring Program.
“I look forward to seeing the success of these initiatives in motivating students to complete their courses and reach their full potential.”
For more information and a full list of successful projects visit: https://www.education.gov.au/news/adult-migrant-english-program-innovative-projects-fund-2017-18
