Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services
Results from a survey of the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) reveal the majority of respondents found their classes were enjoyable, improved their confidence to learn English and helped them to get used to Australian teaching. The results show a marked improvement in key areas from the survey conducted in 2000.

Out of nearly 3000 clients polled in the client satisfaction survey who attended the program between 1 January 2005 and 30 June 2006, 79 per cent indicated they had been offered classes appropriate to their English language ability and needs.

Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, says the program has a strong foundation and the survey results will help inform the review of the program prior to the next tender round.

'The results show the majority of students are happy with the structure and facilities of the AMEP and are growing in confidence as a result of the program,' said Mr Ferguson. 'This gives us a good basis to work from to improve the program for more positive results in the future.'

Assessing all AMEP delivery methods, the survey results also show that more than 87 per cent of classroom students and 90 per cent of home tutor students found classes enjoyable and their teacher was interested in helping them. 

'One of the strong indicators from the survey was the students’ positive attitudes to their teachers across all delivery methods. Teachers were found to be helpful and interested in the students and their progress,' Mr Ferguson said.

'A review of the AMEP has commenced and will take account of the survey results together with other inputs and community consultations. The recommendations from the review will be used to a build an AMEP that delivers stronger outcomes,' the parliamentary secretary added.

In 2005-06, more than 45 000 students attended the AMEP representing 190 countries of origin; 65 per cent of clients were female and 78 per cent were aged between 20 and 44. The most common language spoken by clients studying English was Mandarin, followed by Arabic and Vietnamese.

The AMEP celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2008.

The survey can be found at www.immi.gov.au/amep

http://www.minister.immi.gov.au/parlsec/media/media-releases/2008/lf08008.htm