Abstract: The national system, the ethnic social situation of language and historical background of Australia have similarities with New Zealand’s. Therefore, the two governments have taken the same language policy before. Australia changes its language policy from laissez-faire to assimilation. In order to expand the international trade and improve economic competitiveness, the government changes diversification to prioritization policy with the time going. After New Zealand conquering indigenous Maori, it once adopted assimilation policy. Since then, the government changes the assimilation to integration policy. It aims at combining the language and culture of English with the Maori’s. The two governments adopt different language policy in different historical stages with the objective to stabilize country and economic development. We can get  characteristics and differences of language policy in different times by contrasting two representative countries. It is very important for us to improve language policy and adapt to globalization.

Key words: language policy; Australia; New Zealand; language diversity

CONTENTS

Abstract

中文摘要

1. Introduction....1

2. Overview of the Language Policies of Australia2

2.1 Background Information

2.2 Evolution of the Language Policies in Australia 

2.2.1. Laissez-faire Policy

2.2.2. Assimilation Policy 

2.2.3. Diversification Policy

2.2.4. Prioritization Policy

2.3 Comments on Australia’s Language Policy

3. Overview of the Language Policies of New Zealand.6

3.1 Background Information

3.2 Evolution of the Language Policies in New Zealand

3.3 Comments on New Zealand’s Language Policy

4. Comparison of Language Policies in Australia and New Zealand8

4.1 Similarities

4.2 Differences

4.3 Enlightenments of Australian and New Zealand language policy 

5. Conclusion10

Bibliography.12

Acknowledgements..13