General News
14 June, 2025
Grants to help preserve Indigenous languages
THE State Government has opened applications for the Indigenous Languages Grants program, offering $285,000 for a wide range of Queensland-based initiatives which help to preserve and promote the use of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.
Applications are now open for grants up to $15,000 for art, drama, music and film, Yarning Circles, audio recordings, workshops, signage, books and posters.
The grants support Closing the Gap Target 16, to achieve a sustained increase in the number and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages being spoken.
Queensland was once home to more than 100 Indigenous languages and dialects. Today, around 50 are still spoken, but fewer than 20 are used as first languages.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said the government was proud to support community projects which strengthen traditional languages.
“Amidst the United Nations’ Decade of Indigenous Languages, preserving, revitalising and promoting Queensland languages has never been more important – especially as we look ahead to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“Previous grant recipients include Centenary State High School P&C Association to embed Indigenous language into their curriculum, and the Angkamuthi Tribal Aboriginal Corporation in Far North Queensland to conduct biocultural mapping and language recording on Seven Rivers Country.”
Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said the grants support language education in schools and communities.
“We know learning languages expands our understanding of cultures and history, none more so than our Australian Indigenous languages,” he said.
Applications close on 27 June. Application details can be found at www.qld.gov.au/firstnations/grants-funding/languages
