If you don’t speak English fluently (or you wish to learn another language) you can enrol in a language course.
These are offered by numerous language schools in Australia. Obtaining a working knowledge or becoming fluent in English (or ‘strine’) while living in Australia is relatively easy, as you’re constantly immersed in the English language and have the maximum opportunity to practise. However, if you wish to speak or write English fluently, you probably need to attend a language school or find a private tutor. Many thousands of foreign students (mostly from Asian countries) come to Australia each year to learn English, thus ensuring that English-language schools are big business. It’s usually necessary to have a recognised qualification in English to be accepted at a college of higher or further education in Australia.
English-language courses are offered at all levels by foreign and international organisations, language schools, local associations and clubs, migrant education colleges, open learning institutions, private colleges, private teachers, universities, and technical and further education (TAFE) colleges. Classes range from language courses for complete beginners, through specialised business or cultural courses, to university-level seminars leading to advanced diplomas. The Department of Immigration, Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs supports Settlement English courses for some migrants, and the cost may be funded by the department. There are English-language schools in all cities and large towns in Australia, most equipped with book shops, computers, language laboratories, libraries and video studios.
Most language schools offer a variety of classes according to your current language ability, how many hours you wish to study per week, how much money you want to spend and how quickly you wish to learn. Full-time, part-time and evening courses are offered by most schools, and many also offer residential courses or accommodation with local families (highly recommended to accelerate learning).
Courses that include accommodation (often half-board, consisting of breakfast and an evening meal) usually represent good value. Bear in mind that, if you need to find your own accommodation, particularly in Sydney or Melbourne, it can be difficult and expensive. Language classes generally fall into the following categories: compact (10 to 20 hours per week), intensive (20 to 30 hours), and total immersion (30 to 40 hours or more).
Course fees vary considerably and are usually calculated on a weekly basis. Fees depend on the number of hours’ tuition per week, the type of course, and the location and reputation of the school. Expect to pay up to $600 per week for an intensive course and around $400 per week for a compact course. Total immersion or executive courses, which are provided by many schools, can cost $2,000 or more per week, and not everyone is suited to learning at such a fast rate.