The ACT Government has launched a new survey to gauge community interest in introducing Hindi and Punjabi language education in the Territory’s public schools, in a move that could significantly strengthen cultural inclusion and language learning opportunities for students.
The survey invites views from families, educators, and the broader public on whether Hindi and Punjabi should be offered as part of the ACT’s language curriculum.
Languages are one of the eight learning areas under the Australian Curriculum, and the government emphasises their value in fostering communication skills, critical thinking, problem solving, and intercultural understanding.
Members of the local Indian-Australian community have welcomed the move. “It’s a fantastic step,” Anjali told The Australia Today.
“Many children grow up speaking Hindi or Punjabi at home but never have the chance to study it formally. This will help keep our language and culture alive for the next generation in ACT.”
The initiative acknowledges the growing presence and influence of the Indian diaspora in Canberra. According to the ACT Government, the Indian community is now the largest multicultural group in the Territory, with around 17,000 residents. Of these, nearly 10,000 people speak Hindi or Punjabi at home.
Data from the August 2024 Census of ACT public schools revealed that more than 600 students identified Punjabi as their primary language, while over 800 reported Hindi as their main language.
The ACT Government said in a statement that the survey aims to ensure language education programs reflect the rich diversity of the local community.
ACT public schools currently offer eight priority languages and are supported by strong ties to embassies, universities, and community language networks. The Territory also promotes mother tongue and community language learning through dedicated programs and teacher training. The ACT education system continues to evolve to meet the needs of a diverse, globalised society.
The ACT Government is encouraging community members to participate in the survey to help shape the future of language education in local schools.
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