The birth of new Australian Aboriginal Languages
2025-2029
The incursion of English has deeply impacted the linguistic landscape of Australia. In its wake: new languages which are complex amalgamations of English and traditional Australian languages. The number of first-language speakers is growing rapidly, yet speaking these languages is stigmatised and is correlated with poor educational outcomes. Moreover, many questions surround how these languages are formed and sustained. This project will develop a model of how sound systems develop in these languages, with particular attention paid to the role of speaker identity.
The building blocks of language: Words in Central Australian languages
2022-2026
This research will provide social and cultural benefits by working with speakers of Anmatyerr, Kaytetye, and Warumungu -- three endangered languages of Central Australia -- to provide new knowledge about their structures. For Indigenous students, learning their heritage language is important for well-being and achievements. Descriptions of most indigenous languages do not adequately explain the richness and complexity of structure, knowledge of which are well understood by older speakers, but might not survive as the languages are spoken less by younger members of the community. The research team will work with speakers of Anmatyerr, Kaytetye, and Warumungu to provide good quality descriptions of complex structures, relating them to Indigenous learning practices. Good quality descriptions of complex structures in these languages will serve as models for improving descriptions in other Australian languages. The increase in knowledge of Australian languages and cultures with key implications for Indigenous wellbeing and health ares a National Priority area within the Indigenous Advancement Strategy.
Building employment pathways for Aboriginal people living in the Geelong region
2022-2023
This project involved action research to understand:
• The experiences and stories of local First Nations peoples, communities and stakeholders within Djilang’s employment and skills ecosystem
• The barriers, challenges, opportunities, what is working and what needs to change
Artwork by Louisa Whettam
Warlmanpa language documentation & description
2017-2021
Warlmanpa is a highly endangered language spoken in the Northern Territory of Australia. In collaboration with speakers of the language, this project will provide long-lasting documentation of the language which can serve as the basis for revitalisation.