We are delighted to mark the third annual NSW Aboriginal Languages Week from 19 to 26 October 2025 with a diverse range of programming activities and events across the state to celebrate and showcase Aboriginal Languages.  

Aboriginal Languages Week commemorates the milestone of the passing of the NSW Aboriginal Languages Act 2017, the only state legislation in Australia to recognise the significance and ongoing importance of Aboriginal Languages

With this year’s theme, Let Our Voices Fly, the week-long celebration is a time to reflect and honour the ongoing work of Communities speaking Language on Country. It also celebrates the innovative and powerful ways Languages are being revitalised and passed on across generations through Culture, education and Community leadership.

Aboriginal Languages Trust Chair Catherine Trindall said, “NSW Aboriginal Languages Week is not just a week for celebration, it is a call-to-action, to listen, learn and revitalise the future of our Languages". 

2025 Ambassadors

Two of New South Wales’ most recognised and respected Aboriginal voices, NRL star Cody Walker and journalist Brooke Boney are front and centre as Ambassadors for NSW Aboriginal Languages Week. 

Cody Walker, a proud Bundjalung/Yuin man and prominent sports figure shared his passion for keeping Language strong and alive, “our Language is who we are. It connects us to our Country and to each other.”  
 
Mr Walked added, “I’m proud to be an Ambassador for Aboriginal Languages Week, especially because our young mob need to hear and see their Language spoken and celebrated. It builds pride and strength in who they are.” 

Brooke Boney, a proud Gamilaroi woman and familiar face on Australian TV, echoed that energy, “it’s so special to see more people speaking and hearing Aboriginal Languages”.  
 
“As an Ambassador for Languages Week, I’m honoured to be on my own Language journey and to help shine a light on the richness of our Languages and the determination of our Old People who kept them strong for our benefit”, Ms. Boney said. 

Over the coming months, the Ambassadors will share their own personal Language journeys and participate in events and activities that explore celebrate Language revitalisation across NSW. Stay tuned on our socials and YouTube channel to follow along!

Aboriginal Languages Festival 2025

At the heart of this year’s celebrations is a free, family-friendly Aboriginal Languages Festival to be held at the Carriageworks, Sydney on Sunday, 19 October 2025 10am-3pm. The festival will feature a line-up of Aboriginal musicians, a Corroboree and Language lessons. Market stalls, craft workshops, panels and activities tailored for children will also be on offer providing something for everyone.

“The Festival is an open invitation to the whole NSW community to listen, learn, and celebrate our state’s first Languages”, said Cathy Trindall. 

How can I get involved?

We’re currently seeking expressions of interest from individuals, artists, performers, food vendors, market stallholders, Community groups, and Language practitioners to take part in the NSW Aboriginal Languages Festival and help to celebrate NSW Aboriginal Languages Week. The Festival is a fantastic opportunity for you or your organisation’s work to be showcased in front of thousands of people on the day.

Visit our Get involved page for more details and complete the expression of interest form.

Let Our Voices Fly

With this year’s theme, Let Our Voices Fly, the week-long celebration is a time to reflect and honour the ongoing work of Communities speaking Language on Country. It also celebrates the innovative and powerful ways Languages are being revitalised and passed on across generations through Culture, education and Community leadership.    
 
“Let Our Voices Fly means letting our Languages be heard, loud and proud. When we speak our Languages, we’re telling the world we’re still here; our Culture is strong and alive,” said Brooke Boney. 
 
Cody Walker added, “Let Our Voices Fly is about giving our Languages the wings they deserve. For too long our voices were silenced, but now they’re rising in sports, schools, song and in everyday life. That is something to celebrate.” 

Stay connected

Follow the Ambassadors on their Language journeys and exploration and be the first to know when we release more details about the Festival and Languages Week events and resources.
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