Free English Classes in Australia: AMEP and Other Options

Many people who are new to Australia worry about their English. Even after years of study, the everyday English of daily life is very different from academic English. The good news: Australia has many free or low-cost English support programs designed specifically for new arrivals.

AMEP — English for new migrants

The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is the Australian federal government’s free English program for newly arrived migrants and refugees. It is the largest and most comprehensive program for this group.

Who is eligible: AMEP is for people who come to Australia on certain visa types, including many family visas, humanitarian visas and some skilled visas. Check the specific eligibility for your visa at homeaffairs.gov.au/AMEP — the rules change and the list of eligible visas is updated over time.

What the program offers:

English classes by level (from beginner to advanced)
Everyday conversational English
Work-related English
Study in class, online, or a mix — depending on your needs and circumstances
Childcare during class hours at some locations
Transport support in some areas

Enrolling in AMEP: Contact an AMEP provider near you directly — usually a TAFE, a community college, or a registered training organisation. Find providers through the AMEP page on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Enrolment deadline: AMEP has a time limit after you arrive in Australia — don’t wait too long to enrol. Check the enrolment deadline for your visa.

TAFE — fee-paying or concession English

TAFE (Technical and Further Education), the public vocational college system, offers many English courses at different levels. Some courses are free if you hold a concession card or are eligible for AMEP. Some have fees, but these are usually much lower than at private language schools.

The advantage of TAFE: the qualifications are recognised, and you can combine English with vocational training or job skills.

Public libraries

Public libraries in many cities run English Conversation Groups — speaking-practice groups led by volunteers or volunteer teachers. They are free, don’t involve complicated registration, and are a good way to meet the local community.

Libraries also offer for free:

English books, magazines and audiobooks
Computer and internet access
Some free online English-learning programs through your library card (Libby and other linked apps)

Community organisations and migrant resource centres

Many Migrant Resource Centres and not-for-profit organisations offer free or low-cost English classes, especially in larger cities. Look for an organisation serving the Vietnamese community or the multicultural community in your area.

Some churches, mosques and other religious organisations also run English classes for the community — you don’t have to follow that faith to take part.

Self-study online

Online apps and resources can supplement formal classes:

ABC Learn English — the English-learning program from the ABC (Australia’s national broadcaster); free, with audio, video and exercises
Duolingo — good for keeping up a daily habit, but not a substitute for a real class
YouTube — many channels teach Australian English specifically, including slang and pronunciation

Practical advice

The fastest way to learn real-world English is not in the classroom but in daily life — talking with neighbours, shop staff and colleagues. Don’t be afraid to speak, even if it isn’t perfect yet.

Priority: enrol in AMEP straight away if you are eligible — it is the best resource and it is free. Supplement it with the library and daily practice.