Strengthening Indigenous languages in Australian classrooms

Media release -  Minister Wyatt

Local Indigenous languages will be brought into the classroom, with the Morrison Government funding the development of up to 60 dual language books over three years.

Community organisations will share in $3 million to partner with schools and Indigenous communities to develop and print books in English and their local language.

Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP, said the initiative directly contributes to Target 16 of Closing the Gap - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and languages are strong, supported and flourishing.

“In recent years, there has been considerable growth in interest in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages across the country, from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians,” Minister Wyatt said.

“This project takes languages out of dictionaries and word lists and puts them into more common use, supporting the uptake of Indigenous languages by young people

“Indigenous students will be able to practice their local languages in a culturally safe way and to share stories of their culture and history with their peers, while boosting literacy levels as students learn to read and speak in a way familiar to them.”

“Dual language books will help all Australian children learn about the world’s oldest living culture and will contribute to our nation’s journey towards reconciliation.”

The dual language books will be accompanied by a digital teaching resource aligned to the Australian curriculum.

“The digital teaching resource will provide guidance on how to deliver culturally safe lessons as classes explore their local languages, cultures and history, both the positive stories and injustices faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia’s history,” Minister Wyatt said.

“Once the books and lessons are delivered in a local area, these books will be published more widely so that all Australians can explore and learn more about our unique languages as part of our nation’s journey to reconciliation through truth-telling.”