Modern Greek Programs in Australian Universities

Abstract

The 1960s brought the mass migration of Europeans to Australia. Greeks were amongst the largest migrational groups to come to Australia in that period. Like other Europeans, the Greeks worked tirelessly to promote their culture and language. In doing so they built many community centres, churches and Greek schools. As time passed, the need for modern Greek at a university level was pressing, as the number of Greek students at universities had increased. This article explores the history of modern Greek programs in Australian universities from the first established program at the University of New England in New South Wales, to the most recently established program at the University of Charles Darwin in the Northern Territory. The author deals with the factors responsible for the closing of certain programs but also explores the factors which have contributed to the success, sustainability and progress of other programs. Finally, the author attempts to shed some light on considerations for the survival of modern Greek programs in Australian universities.