Social adaptation in Australia of Vietnamese, Laotian and Kampuchean immigrants was investigated. Of specific concern was evaluation of how immigrant children were being equipped, in schools, to meet cultural and social expectations of Australian community life. The empirical investigation involved 65 Indochinese children in primary schools in Wollongong NSW. English language ability, cognitive development, academic and social progress were analysed to assess performance in terms of demands of Australian school environments. Results highlighted implications for children's long term adaptation of low proficiency in English communication, notwithstanding strong abilities in other areas. The influence on social adaptation of traditional cultural patterns and values, family structure and attitudes, learning styles, and communication, were established as areas for attention by educational planners.