The Liberal National Coalition reaffirmed the party’s commitment to support language education in Victoria, if elected.
“Formal study of a second language is proven to enhance linguistic skills, critical thinking and foster an appreciation for other cultures,” said Shadow Minister for Education, Tim Smith.
“It is very important that we give the students and teachers at these Community Language Schools the funds they need to improve education outcomes.”
Meanwhile, Leader of the Liberal Party, Mr Matthew Guy pledged to assist the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in Melbourne undertake upgrades at parishes across the city by providing $520,000 worth of funding grants. The upgrades will include security measures like CCTV cameras and various capital works to the parishes’ community halls, including kitchens and toilet upgrades.
“In the Greek Orthodox community, church parishes aren’t just places of worship, they’re meeting places, places of fellowship and community support,” Mr Guy said.
“The Greek Orthodox parishes play a significant role in their communities, teaching Greek language, culture and history, supporting the elderly, and providing outreach services. This funding will mean that the Greek Orthodox Church can continue its important work in the community.”
The parishes earmarked for funding are St Eustathios in South Melbourne; Sts Raphael Nicholas & Irene in Bentleigh; Sts Anargiri, Oakleig; Sts Constantine & Helen in South Yarra; Parkdale’s Archangels and Frankston’s Theofania.
This statement comes as a confirmation of the Liberal Nationals pledge to invest $6.88 million over four years into Community Language Schools to boost per capita funding, expanding delivery to 2000 pre-school students, and enhance training and administration.
This means that a Liberal Nationals Government will raise funding per student from $215 to $245 to ensure these schools receive the funding they need to provide first-class language education for our students.
“The study of community languages is important to students for their personal, academic and employment prospects and in supporting our multicultural communities which have enriched our state and nation,” said Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Inga Peulich.
“The Liberal Nationals have always been strong supporters of language education and community language schools.
“As a party which supports families and communities, we recognise the benefit of studying community languages which also assist in the formation of identity and strengthens communication within families.”
There are currently 160 Community Language Schools in Victoria, who play a leading role in providing language and cultural education to over 36,000 students in 40 different languages.
