This paper describes an action research project to develop online, self-access listening resources
mirroring the authentic academic contexts experienced by graduate university students. Current
listening materials for English as an Additional Language (EAL) students mainly use Standard
American English or Standard British pronunciation, and far fewer materials use Australian or
regional accents. Materials are also simplified or spoken at a slower speed, emphasizing
comprehension-type questions, despite the fact that literature reveals effective listening development
involves practice in real-life listening contexts. Academic listening materials conversely emphasize
the formal lecture and development of note-taking skills. We developed a range of activities where
listening input was accompanied by materials reflecting top-down and bottom-up strategies as well
as other cognitive and meta-cognitive skills. Materials were developed over two action research
cycles involving EAL research student participants. Paper-based exercises were trialed and then
developed into online materials where students could create their own listening materials and build
portfolios. Results from the participants in the workshops/focus groups indicate they were able to
develop their listening skills independently because of the explicit and focused approach of the
materials. However, even more explicit and simple instructional design was needed when translated
into the online environment.