New Tender For Migrant English

Media release

Laurie Ferguson MP
Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services

25 November 2009

New tender for migrant English

The Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, today announced the new tender for the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP), the Government's largest settlement program.

It currently provides English language tuition and support to eligible migrants and humanitarian entrants in more than 250 locations.

"This tender is for a new model of services, including enhanced vocational counselling to help migrants identify their own learning path and track their progress through the program," Mr Ferguson said.

Recognising the difficulties of transitioning to a new school system, services have been extended to 15 to 17-year-olds who have left school in the first year after arrival in Australia.

The new model also includes a flexible curriculum with information delivered on Australian society, culture, laws, services and customs.

"The AMEP will help clients enter the workforce and access further training opportunities through a Settlement Language Pathways to Employment/Training course," Mr Ferguson said.

"This course combines successful features of the Employment Pathways and Traineeships in English and Work Readiness Programs established by the government last year.

"It is an integral part of the suite of settlement services delivered by DIAC to new arrivals to support their social inclusion and economic participation in Australian society."

The request for tender is available on the AusTender website www.tenders.gov.au. Enquiries on the tender should be directed to the nominated departmental contact officer.

Media Enquiries: Carla Wilshire 0432 755 935

SOURCE: Laurie Ferguson, Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services