NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Ben Franklin says Aboriginal languages across the state will be revived and supported thanks to a $1.6 million investment.
Minister Franklin said the Aboriginal Languages Grants Program was now open for Aboriginal Community organisations and groups to support their Language programs.
“I’m proud that the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government, the first Government in this country to support Aboriginal Languages through legislation, is continuing its commitment to the growth of Aboriginal Languages in this state,” Mr Franklin said.
“Over the last three years the Aboriginal Languages Trust has granted more than $2.7 million to Aboriginal organisations and Communities. Regional areas have received 89 per cent of these grants. This important funding will reawaken, grow and raise awareness of Aboriginal Languages in Communities right across NSW.”
Aboriginal Languages Trust Board Deputy Chairperson and Gomeroi woman, Catherine Trindall said the Board was excited about the increase in funding for 2023 and ensuring community continue current successes with ongoing financial security.
“There’s an incredible range of Aboriginal Language activities underway across NSW. The Trust is here to listen and to actively support the realisation of community aspirations,” Ms Trindall said.
The $1.6 million investment will be split between two different programs. The Aboriginal Languages Revival Program focuses on small, seed funding to reach a broad range of communities across the state. It is an open, competitive program for $1,000 to $25,000 for one-off support to Aboriginal Community organisations and groups to commence and build on small-scale revival projects.
The Aboriginal Languages Sustainable Funding Program promotes sustainability by offering renewed funding for $25,000 to $60,000. This is an invitation only grants round for the 17 Aboriginal Community organisations and groups who received funding in 2021-2022 to support continuation and growth of their successful projects.
Visit the Aboriginal Languages Trust for more information.