Indigenous Language Grants on offer in Queensland

Applications for the record $400,000 on offer in Indigenous Languages Grants from the Queensland Government in 2021 have been extended until  Friday 29 October.

Local groups, schools and Indigenous organisations have been given the chance to secure funding to reinvigorate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages. 

“More than 100 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages and dialects were once spoken in Queensland, and we know how important it is to preserve and promote languages that are fundamental to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and identity’’ Queensland’s Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Craig Crawford said.

“Today around 50 Indigenous languages are spoken, with less than 20 being used as a first language. Many of those languages are predominantly spoken in North Queensland, including Cape York and the Torres Strait Islands,” he added.

“The extended closing date gives Indigenous led organisations more time to apply, leading to stronger initiatives that will promote, preserve and revive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.”

The record amount has been put forward ahead of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages 2022-2032.

“Language is a big part of cultural identity and is used by Elders to pass on sacred knowledge and stories to the next generation’’ Mr Crawford said.

“Our record Indigenous Languages Grants Program supports our commitment to meeting the Closing the Gap target of increasing the number and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages being spoken by 2031,” he said.

A special place for education 

Minister for Education Grace Grace said the grants supported new and existing partnerships between early learning settings, schools, communities, Elders and traditional language speakers.

“The Indigenous Language Grants 2021 are a great funding boost towards initiatives bringing together Elders, Traditional Owners, language speakers and learners of all ages across Queensland,” Ms Grace said.

“Individual grants of up to $20,000 for local community and significant language initiatives will help preserve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages for current and future generations.”

The grants are proudly co-funded by the Department of Seniors, Disability Services and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and the Department of Education.

Applications will close at 3pm (AEST) Friday 29 October 2021. To apply or find out more please see here.