By Marco Testa
Australia has long described itself as a middle power with global ambitions. We trade across Asia and Europe, welcome migrants from every continent, and seek to strengthen our diplomatic influence in an increasingly complex world. Yet one of the most important foundations of that ambition—language education—remains fragmented, inconsistent and, in too many cases, neglected.
The recent ACT Legislative Assembly inquiry into language education is a stark reminder of a problem that extends well beyond Canberra. The parliamentary committee concluded that the ACT’s Language Education Action Plan is “not fit for purpose”, finding that students are being denied equitable pathways to continue language studies into Years 11 and 12.
The closure of the centralised ATAR language program has contributed to declining enrolments and fewer opportunities for students wishing to pursue advanced language study.
While these findings are specific to the ACT, they reflect a national pattern. Every Australian state and territory approaches language education differently. Curriculum delivery, funding models, teacher recruitment and access to senior secondary courses vary considerably.
As a result, a student’s opportunity to learn and continue studying a language often depends more on their postcode than on their ability or motivation.
This lack of coherence comes at a significant cost. Language enrolments continue to decline in Years 11 and 12 across much of Australia. Students who begin learning a language in primary school frequently encounter broken pathways when they move into secondary education, forcing many to abandon years of study.
Schools struggle to attract qualified teachers, while specialist programs disappear because of insufficient planning or inconsistent investment.
The irony is striking. Australia repeatedly speaks of strengthening relationships with the Indo-Pacific, expanding international trade, attracting investment and increasing cultural engagement. These objectives cannot be achieved through English alone.
Language learning develops intercultural competence, improves communication skills and prepares young Australians to engage confidently with the wider world.
The benefits extend beyond economics and diplomacy. Research consistently demonstrates that learning another language enhances cognitive development, problem-solving abilities and cultural understanding.
Australia needs a genuinely national strategy for language education if it wishes to remain committed to its future.
