OCHRE recognises Aboriginal languages and cultures as a unique component of Australia’s heritage, and a fundamental affirmation of Aboriginal identity, spirituality and connection to Country.
Under OCHRE, seven initial Aboriginal Language and Culture Nests have been established across the state.
The Aboriginal Language and Culture Nest initiative is being led by NSW Department of Education in partnership with the NSW Aboriginal Educational Consultive Group Inc. (AECG), the peak advisory group on Aboriginal education in NSW.
Aboriginal Communities, schools, and educational groups work together to promote:
- Language Revival
- Teaching Aboriginal languages in schools.
- Learning and connecting with their heritage through language.
- Ongoing evaluation to improve outcomes.
- Cultural Connection
- Promoting cultural understanding and pride.
- Aboriginal identity strengthened through cultural activities.
- Community Involvement
- Local communities actively participate.
- Elders and language experts contribute their knowledge.
- Identity and pride
- Increased language learning opportunities.
- Children proud of their Aboriginal identity.
- Employment for language tutors.
For full details about the Nests see:
- Aboriginal Languages and cultures – NSW Department of Education website
- Language and Culture Nests - AECG website
For an evaluation of two Nests as part of the OCHRE Evaluation Stage 1 see:
Gumbaynggir Language and Culture Nest
Summary report
Full report
North West Wiradjuri Language and Culture Nest
Summary report
Full report
Increasing support for Aboriginal languages
Since the first Nest was developed in 2013, great strides have been made in supporting Aboriginal languages in NSW.
In 2017 the NSW Aboriginal Languages Act 2017 was passed. It is the first legislation in Australia to acknowledge the significance of First Languages.
In 2020 the Aboriginal Languages Trust was set up under the Act to support the aspirations of Aboriginal Language Custodians across NSW. It helps coordinate Aboriginal languages activities at local, regional and State levels.
See the Aboriginal Languages Trust Strategic Plan 2022-2027 for more information.
Self-determination and Aboriginal languages
Both Nests and the Aboriginal Languages Trust recognise Aboriginal self-determination around Aboriginal languages, knowledges and cultures.
It is important to always follow ethical protocols and respect Aboriginal Cultural and Intellectual Property (ACIP) around Aboriginal languages and other forms of cultural knowledge. See
Language Custodians Guidelines for ethnical and respectful collaborations
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