This study investigated the status of instruction in cultures and languages other than English in Queensland, Australia in preparation for development of comprehensive and coherent public policies for the field. The report addresses the following topics: the policy development process (project background and the nature of language education planning); language education planning in Australia (national summary and Queensland initiatives); the rationale for teaching languages and cultures (nature and needs of Queensland society); achieving effective implementation (general considerations); infrastructure at the national, state, regional and higher education levels; creation of a favorable climate for policy implementation; data collection and dissemination; importance of quality control; language and cultural education in the schools (target enrollments, selection of languages, strengthening individual languages, cultural awareness, controlled introduction and development of programs, language learning modes, and facilities in schools); and teachers (language proficiency and professional competence, status, career paths, and teacher supply 1990-1995 and 1996-2001). The document concludes with summaries of recommendations, timelines, and roles and responsibilities. Each of the 94 policy recommendations is placed in a framework which includes: the societal and individual needs; the goals and objectives; the implementation proposals and recommendations; indicators of success; and the rationale. Appended materials include a report on the status of Australian sign language, a report on one region's language planning efforts, and a language proficiency rating scale for non-native speakers. (MSE)