Celebrating through the strength of language

NAIDOC Week 2026 marks a significant milestone: 50 Years of Deadly, celebrating five decades of powerful Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, stories and cultural strength.

This year shines a spotlight on the importance of language revitalisation and the communities leading this work, supported through the Indigenous Language Grants program.

One of the 2025 recipients, Gavin Singleton from the Yirrganydji Gurabana Aboriginal Corporation, says the grant has created valuable opportunities to strengthen language and culture in community.

“It’s given us a chance to really focus on revitalising our language, but also tailoring that work to caring for Country and custodianship.” Mr Singleton said.

Mr Singleton said language revitalisation plays a central role in bringing community together and supporting intergenerational knowledge sharing.

“When we talk about custodianship, it’s about how we engage our community our young people, our elders all part of looking after Country,” he said.

“It also means storytelling continuing our culture, song, dance and arts, which are really big pillars of our community.”

He said language underpins each of these elements and gives them deeper meaning.

“Language plays a huge part in that. It’s what we would call the glue it brings it all together,” Mr Singleton said.

“It gives it meaning, it gives it purpose, and it provides that direct link to our ancestors.”

The Indigenous Language Grants program supports community-led initiatives that strengthen cultural identity, connection and pride, ensuring language and knowledge are carried forward to future generations.

Communities across Queensland are encouraged to get involved in NAIDOC Week 2026 and celebrate the ongoing strength and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.