Saving Aboriginal languages

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Tags: Arts, discovery, engagement, Indigenous, languages, summer-2011

UQ linguists are playing their part to preserve Aboriginal languages

As the number of Aboriginal languages dwindles, UQ researchers are intensifying their studies to protect and document those that remain.

Research in Australian languages is a focus at UQ, with the University hosting one of the largest clusters of Aboriginal language academics in the country. The group includes researchers Dr Ilana Mushin, Dr Rob Pensalfini, Dr Myf Turpin, Dr Felicity Meakins and Dr Erich Round.

There were approximately 250 Indigenous languages before settlement and now only 20 remain. UQ linguists are involved in practical community-based research, which includes creating and releasing Aboriginal dictionaries, books and collaborating with schools.

“There is no doubt Aboriginal language continues to change,” Dr Meakins said.

“I’m hoping to document older language and test to see if younger people are speaking in the same way.”

Early next year, linguists from around Australia will meet at UQ to discuss current Aboriginal language research.

The 2012 Australian Languages Workshop will be hosted by the School of Languages and Comparative Cultural Studies and will be held at the UQ Moreton Bay Research Station from March 9–11.

By Dania Lawrence

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