Greek in Australia can survive, but it comes with one condition

Speaking on SBS Greek, Professor Joseph Lo Bianco, Professor Emeritus of Language and Literacy Education at the University of Melbourne and President of the Pharos Alliance, explained that intergenerational loss of Greek in Australia is not a failure, but a predictable pattern in immigrant societies

Professor Joseph Lo Bianco at SBS Studio / SBS Greek: Panos Apostolou

According to Professor Lo Bianco, the long-term survival of Greek depends on turning the language from a passive skill into a living tool for connection.

Children and grandchildren often understand Greek but naturally shift to English unless opportunities for active use are created.

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‘Greek language survives only if we use it’: Professor Joseph Lo Bianco

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He encourages families to introduce simple practices such as “Greek-only moments,” natural conversation rather than heavy correction, and activities that motivate children to want to speak Greer, whether through games, cultural activities, grandparents, or technology.

“The goal isn’t perfect grammar,” he stressed. “The goal is confidence, communication and identity. Greek remains alive only if we use it and use it often.”

The Pharos Alliance, through workshops, resources and outreach, aims to normalise the active use of Greek across households, schools and community spaces, making the language something young people choose rather than something they feel judged for.

Professor Joseph Lo Bianco at SBS Studio / SBS Greek: Panos Apostolou