Posted on 10/17/2006 6:30:34 AM PDT by Aussie Dasher
REFUGEES fleeing war, violence and discrimination could be made to take English lessons before they reach Australia under a Government plan made public today.
People who nominate refugees for visas could also have to prove minimum standards of financial competency and have a good track record of employment.
They could also need a minimum period of residence in Australia, and have limits placed on the number of refugees they propose for resettlement.
The Federal Government today released a discussion paper on Australia's humanitarian migration program.
In the paper, it proposes expanding its Australian Cultural Orientation (AUSCO) program, which was piloted in Kenya in 2003.
The program, run by the International Organisation for Migration, provides people preparing to settle in Australia with a 15-hour information session covering the ins and outs of Australian life, laws and settlement services.
But the Government wants to include a basic introduction to English in the course and increase its length.
"The scope exists to enhance and expand the AUSCO program to further improve the settlement prospects of humanitarian entrants through targeted curriculum development, increasing the length of the courses and incorporating an introduction English language training as a course module," the discussion paper says.
Parliamentary Secretary for Immigration Andrew Robb said English language skills were essential.
(Excerpt) Read more at news.com.au ...
> provides people preparing to settle in Australia with a 15-hour information session
A whole whopping great 15 hours, eh?
Well, it's better than *we* do, I suppose...
OH rack itttt
I wish my country does that
Si. No comprende? Jake
America, take notice!
I think I'll send this article to the President and my Federal Representatives in Congress.
Won't hurt, might help.
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