English Language Testing and Immigration Policy

Posted: 15 Jul 2016

Date Written: July 13, 2016

Abstract

Stricter controls following the introduction of mandatory English testing of skilled migrants in 1992 have raised important policy issues in Australia. As this chapter explains, there are four major policy issues. The first is 'the politicisation of English' - the use of testing as a significant means of controlling the numbers of Australia's skilled migration program. The second issue concerns access and equity. Pre-migration fees to cover language testing, and the possible cost of subsequent Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) fees, $2040 per applicant, could constitute a major barrier for less affluent ethnic groups. The third issue is that this testing may influence the type of skills imported to Australia in the future. The fourth issue is that the delivery of the test needs to be monitored to ensure that the test continues to meet international standards.

Suggested Citation

Hawthorne, Lesleyanne, English Language Testing and Immigration Policy (July 13, 2016). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2808974

Lesleyanne Hawthorne (Contact Author)

University of Melbourne ( email )

185 Pelham Street
Carlton, 3053
Australia

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