Pesan Presiden - Agustus 2026

There have been even more highlights in the VILTA world since our last communication!

• MUNC: Our Model United Nations Conference was filled to capacity, with so many positive comments about the content, organisation, and the amazing morning tea provided. A massive thank you to Ibu Katherine Davidsen for her incredible work coordinating this event, to the entire MUNC team, and to the inspirational Ibu Yacinta Kurniasih for taking on the role of Secretary-General. And not forgetting the attendees! The support for this event was luar biasa.

• VCE WEBINARS: What a successful series! Our experienced presenters offered valuable tips and insights across all four sections of the Indonesian Second Language exam. With over 40 registrations, the demand for this professional support is clear. Feedback about the content and format was extremely positive but also indicated a strong interest in face-to-face sessions for VCE teachers following the release of the Chief Assessor’s report in early 2027. Please let us know your thoughts on this and what specific areas you would like us to focus on.

• CANBERRA SCHOLARSHIP: Two wonderful teacher chaperones accompanied six VCE students who earned this opportunity through an essay submission and interview process. Staying at the residence of the Ambassador, Deputy Ambassador, and Education Attaché added immense prestige to the experience, alongside a meeting with the Hon Tim Watts MP at Parliament House. The highlight was attending the Independence Day Ceremony at the Indonesian Embassy, where Pak Dubes presented certificates to the students and teachers, and Natalie C (Ave Maria College) delivered a thoughtful speech. This program is truly gold in every way.

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• INDEPENDENCE DAY AT KJRI MELBOURNE: Our strong partnership with our rekan-rekan at KJRI Melbourne continued with invitations to the 81st Independence Day celebrations at the Consulate. Shortlisted Canberra applicants and winners of the Hari Kemerdekaan Poster Competition were invited to attend. Despite the quick turn-around, it was fantastic to see several winners make the trip—including some travelling from as far as Ararat! Other VILTA members were present as special guests, and the Dromana College band delivered a fantastic performance. Wah!—Sangat menginspirasi!

• MOCK ORALS: Mock Oral examinations are just around the corner. Entries have poured in and have been organised seamlessly by our phenomenal secretary, Leah Oirbans. Thank you to Carey Baptist Grammar School for hosting, and to all who volunteered as assessors. A new feature this year is the attendance of representatives from key universities, who will be available to speak with students about their tertiary Indonesian pathways.

• P–8 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: It isn't every day that we secure the services of one of Australia’s leading Comprehensible Input (CI) experts. On October 9, VILTA is pleased to welcome Bu Cathy for a full-day workshop tailored for Primary to Year 8 teachers. Having used CI techniques in my own teaching, I know firsthand how these strategies energise the classroom, engage students, and promote practical, meaningful language learning. Please see the information on the VILTA website for registration details.

VCE EXAM PREPARATION & RESOURCES

As VCE exams approach, the VILTA committee wishes all teachers and students the very best with their preparation. Remember to explore the All Resources section on the VILTA website to access slides and materials from our recent webinars, along with exam advice from previous years. If you experience any issues accessing member-only content, please reach out to us via email (note: current 2026 membership is required). 

Minta maaf - we were unable to produce a mock exam this year. We are disappointed about this, and appreciate offers of help to put this together for next year. Meanwhile, past mock exams are all available in the All Resources section of the website for your convenience. 

SUBJECT SELECTION SUPPORT

Subject selection processes are underway across schools for Year 9 and above. Having navigated this season many times, I recognise the mix of excitement, anticipation, and occasional frustration that comes with it. What resources, advocacy tools, or strategies would you like to see from VILTA to assist you in promoting Indonesian during subject selection?

STUDENT TRIPS TO INDONESIA

For smaller schools unable to run an independent study tour to Indonesia, take note of GET’s combined school solution planned for September 2027. This provides an excellent opportunity for students to consolidate their language skills and deepen their cultural connection.

INDOAUSTAY TEACHER SCHOLARSHIPS

For teachers seeking language immersion and professional renewal, the IndoAustay program in Bandung remains an outstanding opportunity. VILTA is offering $500 subsidies for up to five members to assist with costs. Please indicate your VILTA membership when contacting IndoAustay so we can coordinate this financial support.

ADVOCACY & SECTOR SUPPORT

To those teaching single-handedly, or across primary schools delivering one lesson a week to large numbers of students while managing heavy planning and reporting workloads: please know that your efforts are seen and valued. We acknowledge the real challenges facing our sector, including the shift toward alternative language offerings in primary settings and unreplaced positions due to retirements or leaves. There is currently a renewed national effort to establish a peak body to address systemic challenges facing Indonesian language education across Australia. We will continue to advocate for our subject and contribute to these national discussions. Your input is welcome at any time. 

As always, thank you for everything you do for your students and for keeping Bahasa Indonesia strong in our schools. Please don't hesitate to reach out to the committee if we can support you.

Salam,

Jill Kube