Australia's many voices 1

Australia's English raises intriguing questions about its nature and evolution. How has English transformed after being introduced to various global regions? Does the emergence of Australian English and other dialects threaten English's status as a global language? Previous studies have often been narrow in scope, overlooking the unique context in which Australian English has evolved. This work, along with its companion volume, adopts a comprehensive approach that situates English within the broader linguistic landscape of Australia, which it has both disrupted and reshaped. Drawing on diverse data and positing that all forms of Australian English function as a cohesive system, the book explores the social, psycholinguistic, and linguistic history of the language. It examines the influences of indigenous and migrant languages, as well as American English, within their sociohistorical contexts, highlighting how layers of migration have contributed to its development. Over time, Australian English has emerged as a distinct national variety, ultimately gaining recognition as a national language. This status has significant implications for educational policy and outreach in the Asia-Pacific region. The study appeals to experts in English and Australian Studies, while its accessible, non-technical style invites interest from non-specialists as well.