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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages

Did you know there are more than 150 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander language groups in Queensland? State Library of Queensland works with communities to support the preservation, revitalisation, and continuation of our traditional languages, including languages that are living and those that are sleeping.  

We acknowledge language heritage and knowledge always remain with the Traditional Owners, Elders, language custodians and other community members of each language group and Country. We recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages are intrinsically connected to and inseparable from Country, culture and community.  

First Languages Map of Queensland

The First Languages Map of Queensland is an online resource designed to help people learn about the many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages spoken across the state and connect with the language resources, local histories, and items held in State Library of Queensland’s collection. The map is not only a place to explore and listen to language, find stories and see how these languages continue to shape the land and its people, but exists to support communities who are keeping language strong or in the process of revitalising their language.

With feedback from community conversations, teachers, Elders, language centres, and a public review to test and improve the experience, the map was recently refreshed to support accessibility and ongoing community consultation as we continue to seek input for further enhancements.  

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we welcome feedback on any information that may be incorrect, outdated, or inconsistent with cultural protocols. To suggest an update, please complete our feedback form.

Programs and resources

Women participating in the Research Discovery Workshop at the State Library of Queensland.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander word lists
Discover a range of words from saying g’day to place names to animal names and more.
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Boneta Marie-Mabo, Recipients of Round 1 of the Indigenous languages creative arts residency (L-RDean Tyson and Georgia Corowa)
Indigenous Languages creative arts residency
Residencies support First Nations creatives to celebrate, revitalise, and innovate First Nations languages.
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Woman using computer at the Caboolture public library
Tool kits
Our tool kits aim to provide community members, language workers and others with useful information to promote community language revival programs and activities.
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Aerial shot of the Australian landscape
Yuuingan Dhilla Yari
Our annual event celebrating and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.
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Student looking at State Library website on laptop.
Teaching resources
Explore teaching resources featuring First Nations content designed to support educators and learners.
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Funding acknowledgment: State Library of Queensland's Indigenous Language Project is supported by funding from the Indigenous Languages and Arts Program (ILA) from the Australian Government's Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communication: Ministry for the Arts.