National Indigenous Languages Report

Abstract

The National Indigenous Languages Report is a collaboration between the Australian Government Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications, the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS), and the Australian National University. The Report strengthens the evidence base regarding the use, importance, and state of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages. It identifies the strengths and speaker numbers of Australia's Indigenous languages, as well as the many economic and social benefits gained through the recognition, use and reawakening of those languages. The Report provides guidance on practical ways to use its findings to inform policy, program development and service delivery for Australia's First Peoples. The National Indigenous Languages Report is a key achievement through Australia's participation in the United Nation’s 2019 International Year of Indigenous Languages. The authors of the National Indigenous Languages Report acknowledge the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the elders past, present and emerging.