First Nations languages alive as Indigenous Languages Grants announced across Queensland

Nineteen communities across Queensland will share in over $270,000 to help promote, revive and share Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.

Queensland has over 150 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander language groups and it has never been more important to keep these languages in use.

Language connects Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people to culture, country and family and ancestors.

In this year's grants program, there are many examples of how these languages will be kept alive.

From audiobooks to signs at schools in language, to cultural events and the creation of spaces for these languages to thrive, the range of programs reflects the communities in which they will be delivered.

Director-General of Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism, Nat Wilde, said it was important to keep Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages thriving in our communities.

“We are thrilled that we continue to work in close partnership with Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people in supporting traditional languages,” she said.

“We want to see these languages practised, spoken and shared across Queensland. It is critical to sharing and preserving cultural knowledge and understanding.

“Whether it is hearing a song in a traditional language, reading a place name or just knowing how to say G’day, the rich history and knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander language is a powerful thing that we can all experience.”

Nambour Special School P & C Association received an Indigenous Languages Grant of $12,000 for a cultural language program for students, and to add signs written in the local Gubbi Gubbi language around their school and Bush Tucker Garden.

Deputy Principal Adrienne Ford said the school was grateful for the grant.

“This grant recognises the capacity of students with disabilities to learn and celebrate Gubbi Gubbi language and culture, and helps us strengthen connections to Country, identity and community for generations to come,” she said.

“We are wanting to label all of our bush tucker plants and for the signage to be a combination of Gubbi Gubbi language and braille to further make it accessible to all.

"We would like to include a QR code on the signage linking to information about the plants, so that as students visit the garden, they can use their devices to find out more about how the plant was used by the Gubbi Gubbi people, and ways it can be used today.” The University of Queensland Industry Fellow (Indigenous Languages), Desmond Crump, said initiatives like the Indigenous Languages Grants help schools become a significant agent for positive change.

“It is very important to teach Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages in schools – there are only three thriving First Nations languages in Queensland, the remaining 150+ are considered endangered,” said Des.

“Having First Nations languages as an integral part of the education system can enhance the cultural safety and identity of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

“It not only celebrates First Nations languages but enables Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to reaffirm their ongoing connection to culture and country.”

For a full list of the 2025 Indigenous Languages Grant recipients, please visit qld.gov.au/ILG.

The Indigenous Languages Grants program is co-funded by the Department of Education; and the Department of Women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Multiculturalism.