Language boost for preschoolers with $15m announcement from Federal Government

The Federal Government will invest $15 million over the next two years to support children, including those of preschool age, to learn a language other than English. 

Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Andrew Giles made the announcement earlier this week, outlining that grants of up to $30,000 over two years will be available to eligible community language schools, enabling them to expand classes to pre-school aged children, purchase new resources, build quality learning environments, cover costs such as rent or teacher training, or provide fee-relief for disadvantaged students. 

“The younger someone starts learning another language, the easier it will be for them to pick it up, so we’ve included funding to support classes for pre-school aged children. It’s an investment in their future, in Australia’s future as a proudly multicultural society,” he said.

Community language schools play a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage and fostering a bond between young learners and the languages spoken by their parents or grandparents. With a history dating back to 1857, there are now more than 700 language schools operating across Australia, teaching over 100,000 students in over 85 languages. 

Information about the program, along with an easy to complete application form, will go live on GrantConnect from today. Applications for the Community Language Schools Grant will be open from 1 September to 9 October 2023.

“Languages help connect Australians to each other, and to the world. The Albanese Labor Government is committed to strengthening our social connections and facilitating the exchange of cultures by making it easier to learn a second language,” Mr Giles said. 

“This important announcement will ensure that as our diverse community grows, our youngest multicultural Australians will be supported to learn the language and culture of their parents and grandparents.”