A description of the role and status of English language use and instruction in Australia looks at English within the education systems of the seven states and the Australian Capital Territory at all levels, both for native speakers and students of English as a second language. The following areas are also examined (1) the use of English by aboriginals; (2) the supply and training of English instructors; (3) availability of teaching materials; (4) administration of English instruction; (5) the development and planning of instruction; (6) English instruction outside the educational system in five specialized institutions; (7) British, American, and other agency support for English instruction; (8) commercial opportunities; (9) creative writing; (10) current research; and (11) sources of further information. It is noted that preservice and inservice training of teachers of English as a first and second language has developed rapidly in the last five years, with preservice to doctoral training available in major capital cities. Increased training of English teachers to teach abroad in specific institutions and increased availability of individualized instruction and independent study resources for nonnative speakers are also noted. One area specified for further development is the use of instructional television outside the schools. (MSE)