The Malinauskas Labor Government has pledged $4 million to support South Australian community language schools if re-elected next year, continuing a four-year program first announced in 2022.
Minister for Multicultural Affairs Zoe Bettison said the investment was aimed at helping young people stay connected with their heritage while building skills for the future. “Community language schools are a vital asset to our community,” she said. “Nearly 25% of South Australians speak a language other than English at home, up from 15% two decades ago.”
The funding package will support host school premises, fund Community Language Learning Hubs for nearly 1,000 students, invest in training community school leaders, and create pathways for senior secondary students to study a language through community schools.
South Australia currently has 93 accredited community language schools teaching 48 languages to more than 9,000 students. Each week, children gather after school to learn their languages and cultures in programs open to students of all backgrounds.
Ms Bettison said the benefits went far beyond the classroom. “Young people should be proud of their identity and grow up respecting the differences between us, as well as the many values we share. Each week, our young South Australians are given the opportunity to strengthen their connection to their elders and their heritage. But these young people are also looking forwards to a bright future. Multilingual young people are future leaders not just of their own communities, but of Australian businesses, governments and society.”
She added that language education builds understanding across cultures. “As students, teachers, leaders and supporters of our community language schools, you know that language learning is not just about mastering vocabulary and grammar. It also fosters cultural awareness and empathy.”
The Minister said the government’s commitment would ensure continuity for thousands of students. “I am confident our commitment to invest $4 million in our community language schools over the next 4 years will result in tangible change here in South Australia.”
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