For future Aboriginal language strength, celebration and revitalisation work in New South Wales, individual perspective and priorities — from young and old — will play an important part of the road ahead.
Beginning July 21 and through to September, community consultation sessions are being hosted by the state's Aboriginal Languages Trust (ALT) across the state to inform its 2027-2032 strategic plan.
The 18 local sessions begin in Ballina on the state's north coast, before moving through communities towards Sydney and later further south and west.
Online surveys and dedicated online consultation options for some stakeholder groups will also be available.
ALT says it's "critical that the next phase is informed by the voices, experiences and aspirations of the people and Communities at the heart of this work," while inviting community input on identifying opportunities and challenges in language work.
"Aboriginal Languages are central to identity, Culture, wellbeing and connection to Country. As we begin developing our next Strategic Plan, it's essential that the voices of Communities help shape the future direction of our work," Gomeroi man and Aboriginal Languages Trust executive director Brendan Moyle said.
"We want to hear directly from Aboriginal Community members across NSW about their experiences, aspirations, and priorities for Language into the future. These consultations are an opportunity for Communities to help guide the decisions that will support Aboriginal Languages for years to come."
Established in 2020, the ALT is a NSW Government Agency tasked with leading language activity while also working with other state government agencies.
ALT itself identifies a mandate of self-determination and community-guided values and goals underpins their work.
Community consultations were held in 2021 to inform its current strategic plan.
Engaged participation from Aboriginal community members is encouraged, with participants not needing to be language experts to take part.
"We've seen significant progress from Communities over recent years in the strengthening and celebration of Aboriginal Languages across NSW. This consultation process is about building on that momentum and creating a shared vision for what comes next," Mr Moyle said.
"We know that every Community has its own experiences, priorities and aspirations for Language," he added, signalling intent to provide multiple ways for people to engage.
"We want to hear a broad range of voices, including Elders, young people, future Language leaders and Community members who may not have engaged with ALT before.
"This is more than a consultation process. It's an opportunity for Communities to influence how Aboriginal Languages are supported, strengthened and celebrated into the future."
ALT said community participation will guide future investment in Aboriginal Language Work, how this is delivered in communities, while informing decisions which affect local communities and organisations and foster language sector relationships, among other elements.
Registration for consultation sessions can be made online.
