More than 18,000 students in Western Australia are set to benefit from a fresh round of funding under the state’s Community Languages Program, with a record $2.345 million allocated by the Cook Government for 2025. The package includes over $1.29 million going directly to 59 not-for-profit community language schools, where 8,291 students are enrolled in classes teaching 37 different languages outside regular school hours.
This funding supports the schools’ operating costs and helps ensure that language learning continues to be accessible for students from Kindergarten through to Year 12. While the primary focus remains on preserving and teaching languages other than English, the initiative also highlights growing community interest in maintaining cultural ties through language education.
Another major component of the program is the Italian in-School Insertion Program, which is delivered in 39 primary schools across WA, including seven in regional areas. More than 10,000 students are enrolled in Italian classes through this stream.
Beyond financial support, the Government is introducing a new professional development program tailored to the specific needs of community language schools. Delivered by Community Languages Western Australia, this refreshed training offering will provide targeted support to improve teaching practices and help schools respond to increasing demand.
Administered by the Office of Multicultural Interests within the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport, the Community Languages Program has seen a steady rise in both enrolments and language diversity over the past decade. In 2014, just 17 languages were taught under the scheme. By 2025, that figure is expected to double, reaching 34.
Multicultural Interests Minister Dr Tony Buti said the level of participation shows the depth of interest in keeping languages alive for future generations. “The record program investment of $2.345 million in 2025 reflects the important role community language schools play in preserving language and culture,” he said.
Dr Buti added that the growth of the program speaks to the importance many families place on maintaining their linguistic and cultural roots. “Encouraging young people to strengthen their connection to culture through learning a second language helps to preserve it long term,” he said.
While the program is designed for out-of-school hours learning, its benefits go well beyond language proficiency. It gives children opportunities to connect with extended family traditions, develop cross-cultural understanding, and build confidence in navigating a multicultural society.
The program has also proven adaptable, responding to the evolving needs of WA’s diverse communities. From Polish and Vietnamese to Arabic, Swahili, and Noongar, the range of languages taught continues to expand in line with community demand. The latest round of funding helps ensure these schools remain equipped to provide quality education and keep up with enrolment pressures.
Community language schools often rely on passionate volunteers and educators from within the communities they serve, and the addition of a dedicated support and development program is expected to help these educators feel more connected and prepared. It also gives schools access to training that’s tailored rather than generic, reflecting the unique challenges they face in a multicultural setting.
With enrolment numbers climbing steadily and more languages entering the program each year, the WA Government’s continued investment suggests long-term backing for the sector. For families, it’s an opportunity to pass on knowledge and identity through everyday learning. For children, it’s a path to understanding more than one way of seeing the world.
More information about the Community Languages Program and a full list of grant recipients is available on the Office of Multicultural Interests website.
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