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SMRC calls for more practical support in English language learning
The Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre (SMRC) has been featured in a recent ABC News story highlighting challenges within Australia’s Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP), and the need for more practical, accessible language learning.
The article explores concerns raised by educators and community organisations across the country. Many say the program can place a strong focus on assessments and administration, rather than building the everyday English skills people need to work, connect with others, and feel confident in their daily lives. Although the program provides an essential benefit to a proportion of new migrants, there are many who are not literate in their first language and struggle with a learning English in a formal setting.
SMRC contributed to the story by sharing frontline insights and the lived experience of one of our clients, helping bring attention to the real barriers people can face when learning English and settling in Australia.
Nosrat (right), an SMRC client, shared her experience of learning through the AMEP.
“They used to give me a lot of papers and we just copied it into our notebooks,” she explained.
“A lot of paperwork, a lot of worksheets, but no clear explanation in the class.”
Jim Mullan, SMRC CEO, shares that “the component that is missing in all of this is the conversational piece and it’s clearly been missing for a long time.”
After enrolling in further classes at SMRC, Nosrat has continued to build her confidence and improve her English through more practical, community-based learning.
Her story reflects what many learners need, clear communication, supportive environments, and opportunities to practise real-life language skills.
At SMRC, our programs focus on building confidence, connection, and independence. We work alongside people to develop practical English skills that support everyday life, from speaking with a doctor to helping children with school or finding employment.
Image provided by ABC News
We are proud to contribute to important national conversations like this, and to advocate for programs that better meet the needs of migrant and refugee communities.
You can read the full ABC News story here or watch the video story below.
Want to make a difference with SMRC? Find out more below.
