Differences in the role of Standard Australian English (SAusE) in a variety of Australian language educational programs are explored. The value of teaching SAusE (as opposed to a more international Standard English) both to non-native speakers learning English as a Second Language and to Aboriginal English speakers learning SAusE as a second dialect is evaluated. It is argued that it is important that such students understand SAusE in order to interact successfully with Australian English speakers outside the classroom and to maximize their English language fluency. However, it is stressed that the students must also be taught to distinguish those elements of SAusE that differ from core World English. In addition, the history of the academic study of Australian English is reviewed, extant English language programs in the country are discussed, and dialects or varieties of Australian English are examined. (JL)