Submission into Adult Literacy and its Importance
FECCA highlights the critical role of adult literacy in fostering social cohesion and supporting migrants’ successful integration into Australian society. Emphasising that while English proficiency is valuable, it should not be seen as the sole determinant of an individual’s ability to contribute to society. Migrants and refugees actively participate in Australian life through employment, volunteering, and community engagement, even with limited English skills. However, barriers such as insufficient access to flexible, culturally tailored English programs hinder many individuals’ ability to develop proficiency over time. FECCA welcomes reforms to the Adult Migrant English Program, such as removing time and hour limits, and advocates for further community-driven and accessible learning opportunities.
FECCA also underscores the importance of equitable access to government services and the need for multilingual support, including interpreters and translated materials. Criticising the lack of consistent data collection on the cultural and linguistic diversity of CALD communities, which hampers effective policy-making and resource allocation. FECCA calls for improved administrative data standards and disaggregated metrics to inform evidence-based policies addressing literacy gaps and socio-economic barriers. By prioritising flexible literacy programs and recognising the diverse contributions of migrants and refugees, FECCA argues that Australia can foster a more inclusive and cohesive society while maximising the potential of its multicultural population.
