Personalise my view
Adult Migrant English Program
The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) offers free and basic English language classes to help you settle into your new life in Australia. The AMEP is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.
Apply now | Choose your language
Streams
AMEP is offered in streams to meet your specific learning needs and goals. Whether you want to improve your English language skills for living, working, or studying in Australia, we have a pathway that's right for you.
The pre-employment English stream is perfect for people who want to develop their English language skills to get a job in Australia or complete further studies at TAFE or university. Learn how to write job applications, prepare for job interviews, and participate effectively in the workplace. You'll also learn about Australian workplace culture and practices and develop valuable computer skills.
The social English stream will help you develop the language and life skills required to settle into life in Australia. This stream will help you improve your conversational English skills for everyday life, engage with your local community, and live independently in Australia. You will learn how to access government and community services, meet other new arrivals to Australia, make friends, and develop a support network in your new home.
Moving to another country can be a big change, especially for younger members of the family. TAFE Queensland understands the unique challenges facing young migrants, with many locations now offering classes specifically for people aged between 15 and 24. In addition to important English language skills, students participate in group activities such as sport, music, art, and excursions. These opportunities allow them to meet other young people in similar situations and develop meaningful friendships.
Study options
In class
You can study AMEP full time or part time at any of our Queensland locations. Depending on your location, classes may be held during the day, in the evenings, on or Saturdays. Studying in class is great if you prefer to speak with your teacher face-to-face and meet and interact with your fellow classmates.
Distance learning
Distance learning is perfect if you need to fit your study around your lifestyle and family commitments. You can choose to complete some or all of your course through this study method, and you can start studying at any time. You'll receive books, CDs and other learning resources and will be expected to complete at least five hours of study per week. You will also be in regular contact with a qualified teacher to help you progress through your studies.
Tutor support
If you can't attend classes, you may be eligible to receive support from a trained tutor for one hour per week. You will be matched with a tutor based on your gender, location, common interests, and availability. You can arrange for your tutor to come to your home or meet you in a public venue such as a library or cafe.
Self-paced e-learning
All AMEP students have the option to complete self-paced learning online. This is a great option for anyone wanting to study both during term and in holiday periods.
Eligibility
AMEP is available to migrants who need to improve their English language skills.
You are eligible if you meet the following criteria:
- hold a family, skills, humanitarian, spousal, or approved temporary visa (approved temporary visas do not include the work and holiday visa, working holiday visa, or visitor visa)
- have low English speaking, reading, or writing skills
- be over 18 years-of-age (some migrant youth aged 15 to 17 may also be eligible)
In order for TAFE Queensland to check your eligibility, you will need to supply:
- your full name (as shown on your passport)
- your date of birth (as shown on your passport)
- your most recent visa documents
- your passport
If you're not eligible for AMEP, you may still be able to study English at TAFE Queensland through one of our ELICOS courses.
Our locations
Cairns
TAFE Queensland Cairns campus
Gatton, Newton, Eureka & Wilkinson Streets, Manunda Qld 4870
Innisfail (Johnstone)
TAFE Queensland Innisfail campus
45 Flying Fish Point Road, Innisfail Qld 4860
You may be eligible for free childcare during your AMEP classes. To access this service, your children must be younger than school age or be waiting to begin their first year of school. This service is only available while you attend AMEP classes and is not available for tutor or distance learning students.
Watch the video to find out more about becoming a volunteer tutor. If you're ready to contribute to your community by becoming a volunteer tutor then register your interest.
Work Ready is an AMEP program which prepares migrants for work in Australia.
Course content includes work experience in a local workplace, creating resumés and job applications, preparing for job interviews, employability skills, and occupational health and safety. Contact us for more information.