Welcome to CAN-
Chinese Australian Network
Mission Statement:
Helping Chinese Immigrants communicate in English and learn the Australian way of life
Our Initiatives
English Corner
Environment and climate
Civics and Democracy
Meet our partners, supporters and volunteers
What the Community says about us
“English Corner gave me the confidence to chat with my neighbours and even ring up tradies — something I was too nervous to do before. It’s more than a class; it’s a family.”
— Wei-Ling Zhou, new migrant from Guangzhou
“Partnering with CAN on local clean-ups doubled our turnout and brought fresh energy. Their bilingual team makes environmental action accessible to everyone.”
— Sarah De Boer, Community Campaigner, Environment Victoria
“I joined the Civics & Democracy workshops thinking politics was ‘too hard’. Now I’ve spoken at council about safer streets and I’m volunteering at the next election.
— Kevin Jiang, international-student-turned-Australian-citizen
Member
Volunteers
Client
Community Members
Co-Founder
"Chinese Australian Network, Inc. (CAN) supports Chinese Australians in learning English and embracing Australian culture. Through initiatives like
English Corners Australia, we combat social isolation and mental health concerns. Despite international complexities, the support we receive further our mission: fostering a harmonious, multicultural Australian society."
Minwen Wu
- Founder & President, CAN
Board Members
Gary Chan
Kin Cheung
Heena Sinha Cheung
Tharinni Rowette
Julian Smith
Q&A
What is CAN – Chinese Australian Network, and why was it created?
CAN is an incorporated, not-for-profit community group founded in Melbourne by Minwen Wu to help Chinese migrants settle successfully in Australia. Its mission is to break down language barriers, reduce social isolation and build a confident, civically-engaged Chinese-Australian community through practical programs and partnerships.
What happens at an English Corner and do I need perfect English to join?
English Corner is a relaxed language-exchange session that runs up to five times a week in person and on Zoom. Trained volunteers guide conversations on everyday topics so participants can practise speaking, pick up Australian expressions and make friends. All levels are welcome – beginners often benefit the most.
How is CAN tackling environmental and climate issues?
Through its “Environment & Climate” initiative CAN works with statewide groups such as Environment Victoria to organise community clean-ups, energy-saving workshops and climate-action forums in Mandarin and Cantonese. These collaborations give members access to expert resources while amplifying migrant voices in the climate movement.
What does “Civics & Democracy” mean in practice?
The program partners with organisations like the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) to run information nights on voting, local-council engagement and parliamentary visits. The goal is to help Chinese-speaking residents understand their rights and responsibilities and to feel confident participating in Australia’s democratic processes.
How can I volunteer or support CAN?
You can: 1) tutor at English Corner; 2) join the environment team for weekend activities; 3) offer professional skills (e.g. translation, IT, event management); or 4) donate to keep programs free. Start by filling in the volunteer form on the “Contact Us” page – the team will match your interests with current needs and provide a short induction.
Office: Level 2/ 14-16 Prospect Street, Box Hill VIC 3128
WeChat voca_news
Email:[email protected]
Site: www.yeswecan.org.au