Promoting the speaking of the Greek language is one of the top priorities of the Greek communities in Australia. A recent study noted that, for the first time ever, Greek has slipped from its historical place as the second most-common language spoken at home in Australia, to third position, behind Mandarin.
The Greek community of Melbourne recently hosted a Christmas party and ceremony where awards were given to the students with the highest achievement in Greek language studies.
Vasilis Papastergiadis, speaking with Greek state TV ERT, said that the community will continue to place a great focus on language learning. Notably, it is not only members of the Greek community who learn the Greek language in Australia.
Many people from different ethnic backgrounds are currently learning the language, which gives hope that the language has a bright future in this part of the world.
Students were awarded certificates at the Greek Centre in Melbourne for their achievements in both Modern and Ancient Greek.
More than ten students won awards, including Theano Salta, Felicia-Eutychia Thanopoulos, Simon Seddon, and Jordi Cordas.