NSW GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR ABORIGINAL LANGUAGE CENTRE
20 July 2011
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Victor Dominello MP has announced funding for the creation of the Centre for Aboriginal Languages Coordination and Development (CALCD).
Following a merit based process, the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (NSW AECG Inc.) has been granted $1.277 million (approximately $400,000 every year for three years) to develop the CALCD, which will be overseen by a Council of experts in the field that are yet to be determined
"I share the view of Aboriginal communities that reclaiming and maintaining Aboriginal language and culture is imperative, as it instills a greater sense of identity, pride and confidence in people and leads to increased school attendance and participation," Minister Dominello said.
"We have listened to members of numerous Aboriginal communities and we are pleased to redirect funds from the bureaucracy to this community-based Aboriginal organisation to focus on language revitalisation," Minister Dominello said.
NSW AECG Inc. is the recognised peak advisory body on education and training and advocates on behalf of Aboriginal people and communities. NSW AECG Inc. is made up of volunteer members involved in Local and Regional AECGs across NSW.
"Our decision to support the NSW AECG Inc. is based on key aspects of our direction: real partnerships with Aboriginal communities, real Aboriginal ownership of initiatives and a real focus on what's possible and positive, including cultural empowerment," Minister Dominello said.
Minister Dominello made the announcement during a visit to the far west of NSW to take part in NAIDOC week celebrations.
"It was an honour to meet a prominent resident of Wilcannia, Mr Murray Butcher, who is teaching the local Paakantji language at the local school," Minister Dominello said.
"Mr Butcher explained to me how language laid the foundation for Aboriginal people's connection to country, culture and identity, and the importance of teaching this to kids so they can be proud of who they are.
"The CALCD will play a vital role in exploring both existing and future opportunities to ensure that this can be achieved across NSW, and we look forward to its development in the coming months," Minister Dominello said.
MEDIA CONTACT: Kristen Kelly 0408592793
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