“Speaking and learning traditional languages improves the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, by providing a sense of belonging and empowerment,” said Mr Harwin.

“As the only state government to enact legislation to acknowledge the significance of Aboriginal languages, I encourage all interested groups to come forward to help us widen the knowledge sharing and learning across NSW and beyond.”

The Aboriginal Languages Community Investments Program 2021 is an open round grants program offering a total of $800,000 across three categories to support different project aims including reawaken (supports projects that encourage the development of new or emerging language activities) – up to $20,000, grow (supports existing projects to expand and develop the capacity of groups or organisations) – up to $50,000 and nurture (provides support to build the strategic capacity of more established groups or organisations) – up to $90,000

The Aboriginal Languages Trust was formed in 2020 as part of the Aboriginal Languages Act 2017 to provide a focused, coordinated and sustained effort in relation to Aboriginal language activities at local, regional and state levels.

Aboriginal Languages Trust Board Chairperson Jason Behrendt echoed the minister’s comments, adding that the board was excited to be launching the grants for the first time under the trust’s operation.

“There’s an incredible range of Aboriginal language activities underway across NSW and that’s exactly what the trust is here to support,” Trust Board Chairperson Jason said

“Whether it’s about help to create new resources, developing team capacity or strengthening existing programs, we want to hear from the passionate groups that are driving use of their languages across their community and support them to widen this even further,” Trust Board Chairperson Jason said

Applications for the Aboriginal Languages Community Investments Program 2021 funding round open Monday 1 February 2021 and close Friday 12 March 2021, for projects delivered during 2021 and up to 30 June 2022.