The National Race Discrimination Commissioner has called for the proposed new English language visa requirements to be developed in consultation with key community stakeholders.
The Commissioner, Chin Tan (pictured) said the inclusion of the new policy in the Federal Budget came as a surprise to the multicultural sector and a lack of information about the policy had created concern among members of the Australian community.
“I support a Government position that promotes and encourages all migrants to Australia to acquire English, but where there is a policy that enforces and sanctions the rights of partners under the Partners Visa to remain in Australia based on their English proficiency, then that requirement may be unfair and may unjustly affect the rights of partners,” Commissioner Tan said.
“It is particularly concerning if the requirement has the effect of serving as a marriage segregation policy that determines who Australians should enter into relationships with based on race, culture and nationality,” he said.
“Achieving a functional level of English is a complex process influenced by many factors, and the part race, culture and nationality can play in this process must be carefully considered and taken into account if the proposed requirement is to be applied without discriminatory results.”
Commissioner Tan said he was also concerned about the requirement that sponsors from non-English speaking backgrounds must take language tests, despite already being legally entitled to live in Australia.
He called on the Government to ensure that any policy requirements were designed to help new migrants feel welcomed and properly supported to settle in the community.
“Social cohesion is more than just language, it is about a sense of belonging,” he said.
“As a successful multicultural country, it is important that Australia supports all citizens and permanent residents to fully access community services and supports regardless of their language proficiency.”
Commissioner Tan said it was vitally important that access to services and supports be facilitated in a non-punitive manner.
