Candidates for the International English Language Testing System, known as IELTS, can now access a testing centre in Mackay.

Previously they have had to travel hundreds of kilometres, but the new service established by CQUniversity Language Centre at the Mackay Campus will make things easier.

Designed for people who intend to study or work where English is the language of communication, IELTS measures a person's ability to communicate in English across all 4 language skills - listening, reading, writing and speaking.

The new testing centre will enable the CQUniversity Language Centre to respond to the growing demand for IELTS examinations in Australia, as well as offering a new service to the Mackay region.

In addition to undertaking IELTS testing, candidates will also be able to access IELTS training and English language classes.

The testing centre - which will be accessible all year round - is operated by highly qualified and experience ESL teachers and will offer testing at General or Academic Training levels.

The General Training Reading and Writing tests are not designed to test the full range of formal language skills required for academic purposes, but emphasise basic survival skills in a broad social and educational context.

The Academic Reading and Writing tests assess whether a candidate is ready to study or train in English at an undergraduate or postgraduate level. Admission to undergraduate and postgraduate courses is based on the results of these tests.

IELTS is recognised by universities and employers in many countries and is also recognised by professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies.

The next scheduled IELTS testing dates at CQUniversity Mackay are September 6 and December 13 this year.

Candidates wanting to register for an IELTS test should contact Tracey Daffey, IELTS Administrator Officer on phone 4930 9790.