Filipino language emerges as a priority in Australia's expanding Language Education Program

The Filipino language is among more than 15 Asian languages set to receive stronger support in Australian schools under the federal government's Community Language Schools Program.

---

Key Points

• Filipino language included in expanded government-backed language program. The initiative targets students from Year 7 to Year 12.
• Longtime Filipino language teacher, Emmylou Hidalgo, said more children are exposed to the language at home but need structured support and confidence to actively use it.
• SBS Filipino interviews Nikka Romarate, one of many young Filipino-Australians from Sydney, understand spoken Filipino but often respond in English, highlighting a gap between cultural identity and language fluency.

If I stopped learning the language, I feel like I would lose so much of my heritage and who I actually am.

Nikka Romarate, Young Filipino-Australian

"For me, learning Filipino means actually completing a puzzle that has taken years to put together." Nikka, a Filipino raised in Australia, adding that every new word she learns, helps her better understand her roots and identity.

📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino

🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.

📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.

📣 Follow Us on Social Media – Stay updated by following us on Facebook and Instagram.