Government language policy initiatives and the future of ethnic languages in Australia

An overview of recent changes in government lang policy in Australia & the impact of those changes. Recent issues regarding development of a national lang policy, & the provision of ethnic & multicultural broadcasting are addressed. Some factors that have led to the increased interest in lang policy matters since the early 1970s are examined, including increased immigration & increased mobilization & demands by linguistic & ethnic groups. Although the central government is not as active in lang policy issues as it has been in the recent past, regional efforts are laying the groundwork for lang maintenance programs & provision of more professional lang services & broadcasting. 18 References. B. Annesser Murray