Critical Perspective of Australia’s Language Planning and Policies

Junilyn C. Samoya-Zozobrado
Teacher II at Capisan National High School, Zamboanga City
Master of Arts in Education Major in English Language Teaching at Universidad de Zamboanga
Doctor of Philosophy Major in Language Studies at Ateneo de Zamboanga University

Abstract

Australia is known for its complex linguistic demography in view of its post-colonial

history, high rate of immigration, and as a trading nation. Therefore, the language planning

landscape of the country reflects the multiple language policy needs, interests and diverse

historical, political and educational challenges. Despite Australia’s effort on establishing a

comprehensive language policy that caters the multilinguistic landscape of the country, the

current policy’s notion of multilingualism however is politicized while English variationist

ideology flourished due to economic demands and globalization. Thus, this paper argues that

reconciliation in terms of the needs, interests, and demands of what is perceived as standard and

important nationally and within the community must be considered by Australian policy makers

where policies need to be more nuanced, inclusive, and sociolinguistically informed.