Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages are the original languages of Australia, with many critically endangered. We are committed to continuing these languages by teaching them in public schools across the state.
In 2024, there were almost 16,000 students learning Aboriginal languages across 102 West Australian public schools. Each of the 20 languages is unique to Country and connects people with Country, with each other and to ways of seeing and interpreting the world in the past, the present and the future.
The 20 languages taught in our schools are:
Kimberley
- Bardi
- Bunuba
- Gooniyandi
- Miriwoong
- Ngarinyin
- Nyangumarta
- Nyikina
- Karajarri
- Mangala
- Walmajarri
- Yawuru
Pilbara
- Martu Wangka
- Yindjibarndi
- Nyangumarta
Goldfields
- Martu Wangka
- Ngaanyatjarra
- Ngadju
- Pitjantjatjara
- Wangkatja
- Pintupi
Midwest
- Wajarri
North Metro, South Metro, Wheatbelt and Southwest
- Noongar
Learning an Aboriginal language supports students to develop a strong sense of identity, pride and self-esteem that strengthens wellbeing and engagement. Aboriginal language programs build respect for Aboriginal histories, cultures, people, knowledge and experiences amongst students and their families, school staff, and the broader community.
Our schools play a vital role in language learning and supporting community language revitalisation. Aboriginal language teachers use their knowledge, skills and lived experience along with community support, to successfully teach the language and positively incorporate Aboriginal knowledge into the curriculum.
There are currently 45 Aboriginal people undertaking language teacher training. As custodians of the language, their commitment to the revitalisation, renewal, reclamation and continuation of their language is essential in ensuring future generations of young Western Australians will continue to learn Aboriginal languages.
Aboriginal Languages Implementation Guidelines are available for schools and provides valuable information about:
- respectful collaboration with the local Aboriginal community
- establishing a Language Advisory Group
- identifying an Aboriginal Language Teacher or Trainee
- supporting the Aboriginal Language Teacher or Trainee
For more information about implementing an Aboriginal Languages program, or how to apply for the Aboriginal Languages Teacher Training program email AboriginalLanguages@education.wa.edu.au.